NCJ Number
208245
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 52 Issue: 11 Dated: November 2004 Pages: 100,102,104
Date Published
November 2004
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article identifies and discusses the handling of personnel and management situations likely to arise for a new first-line supervisor (sergeant) in a law enforcement agency.
Abstract
One situation likely to be encountered by a new supervisor is the testing of his/her authority and management style by a subordinate. This may involve minor rule violations or disrespectful remarks. It is important that such challenges to authority be addressed immediately. The offending officer should be addressed in private using a non-confrontational approach, with the purpose being to identify the underlying cause of the behavior. Depending on the cause, remedies may include training, counseling, discipline, or a referral to an employee assistance program. A quick, fair, non-confrontational approach to the situation will likely prevent future occurrences, not only by the offending officer but by other officers who learn of how the situation was handled. Another situation likely to be encountered by a new supervisor appointed from within the department pertains to the new status of authority among peers. The first step is to indicate that the new structure of occupational interaction involves new responsibilities within the job setting and not a change in friendship commitments. Other situations addressed in the article are the supervisor's dual role of implementing the policies of higher management personnel while acting as an advocate for front-line officers and the challenge of managing people versus handling situations.