How to Be a Good Assistant Supervisor
An assistant supervisor often has to maintain the high expectations of a supervisor while managing the day-to-day activities of a department, presenting issues of concern to the supervisor and working directly with the other employees in the department. An assistant supervisor shares the management responsibilities with the supervisor, and acts in place of the supervisor in her absence. An effective assistant supervisor is a role model for employees, a helpful hand to a supervisor and a strong decision-maker for the department.
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Instructions
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Study the job expectations for each subordinate employee, including individual responsibilities and overall expected production. Correct any misconceptions amongst subordinates by explaining the procedure or expectations clearly, or by demonstrating the expected procedure for them to follow. Play a supportive role in their workday by helping them rise to the expectations of your supervisor.
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Watch your supervisor, paying close attention to her standards and expectations. Make a list of comments, concerns and specific remarks she makes regarding the work of employees. Use these as your guide when dealing with subordinate employees. For instance, if the supervisor says she notices an employee neglecting to clean an area of the store, speak to the employee and make sure he understands he is expected to clean.
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Present yourself as an example for subordinate employees by showing up to work on time, working hard during your workday and helping subordinates reach your expectations. Always wear clothing appropriate to your position. Encourage subordinates to take after your example and present themselves well to your clients.
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Support your supervisor verbally when speaking to co-workers and subordinates and physically by performing the tasks she expects of you each day. If you have a disagreement with your supervisor, speak to her privately, away from other employees, as friction between a supervisor and assistant supervisor can cause morale problems among subordinates and undermine your authority.
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Provide honest feedback to your supervisor regarding employee issues, suggestions for improvements and procedural issues you’ve noticed. Make a list of issues as they come up, and prepare possible solutions to each problem. Assess each problem as you encounter it, making sure to approach your supervisor immediately with any emergencies that require her specific attention, such as conflict between employees or suspicions of employee fraud or dishonesty.
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References
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