How to Communicate Effectively as a Supervisor

As a supervisor managing several employees, effective communication is the key to helping each person tackle projects and complete assignments efficiently and on time. Get the assignments across clearly and maintain a positive, productive work environment with some simple strategies.

Instructions

1. Think before you speak, considering how your comments, attitude and tone of voice will make your employees feel. Aim to be positive and upbeat, even if you're discussing errors or flaws in an employee's performance. Give constructive advice on how he can improve rather than just telling him what he's done wrong.

2. Determine how each employee is most receptive to advice or instructions. One may prefer hearing project details in person while another may want concise emails outlining the requirements without any unnecessary chitchat.

3. Keep from contradicting yourself with waffling requirements or deadlines. Telling one person that a report is due on Tuesday, then telling another that the team can have until Wednesday will only confuse their focus. Create an outline that you can refer to keep your ideas clear.

4. Try not to use abbreviations or industry slang that employees might not understand, particularly if they're new to the industry. Make instructions as clear as possible and offer details and examples to illustrate your points.

5. Maintain a line of communication and be willing to listen, take feedback and answer questions if it means getting the job done correctly. Keep your staff updated, even if there aren't any earth-shattering developments with the company. Offer encouragement to balance your requests for corrections or extra work.

6. Set a good example. If you expect your employees to meet a tight deadline, be sure you get them the assignment and helpful materials when you've promised to do so. Follow up with raises or additional opportunities so employees will know they're not just empty promises. Hold one-on-one meetings to discuss problems you're having with an employee rather than talking to her co-workers or even other supervisors behind her back.