The Supervisor’s Gift of Undivided Attention

As a senior manager of a trades-based or industrial company, you know how important it is to have a strong and competent team of frontline supervisors. They are the ones who directly interact with your employees, customers, and partners. They are the ones who ensure the quality and safety of your work. They are the ones who represent your company’s values and culture.

But do you also know how challenging it is to be a frontline supervisor and what your supervisors need from you to succeed and be the supervisors employees want to have? Do you know how to empower them with the skills to engage teams, create trusting and respectful relationships, and lead their teams with confidence?

If you want to help your supervisors break the cycle of downward performance and create a great place to work, you need to give them the gift of undivided attention.

What is undivided attention?

Undivided attention is the act of giving your full and focused attention to someone or something. It is the opposite of multitasking, distraction, and interruption. It is the expression of genuine interest, respect, and care.

Why is undivided attention important?

Undivided attention is important because it shows that you value the person or the task at hand. It helps you to listen, understand, and communicate better. It helps you to build rapport, trust, and loyalty. It helps you to solve problems, make decisions, and take action.

How can you give undivided attention to your supervisors?

Giving undivided attention to your supervisors is not difficult but requires intention, discipline, and practice. Here are some tips that you can follow:

• Schedule regular and uninterrupted meetings with your supervisors. Make sure you have a clear agenda, a specific time frame, and a quiet and comfortable space. Turn off your phone, close your laptop, and avoid any distractions. Focus on the conversation and the outcomes.
• Ask open-ended and probing questions to your supervisors. Encourage them to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Listen actively and attentively. Show empathy and compassion. Acknowledge their achievements and challenges. Give constructive feedback and guidance.
• Empower your supervisors to make decisions and take action. Involve them in the planning and execution of your goals and strategies. Delegate tasks and responsibilities that match their skills and interests. Support them in their learning and development. Recognize and reward their contributions and efforts.
• Follow up and follow through with your supervisors. Check-in with them regularly and monitor their progress and performance. Provide them with the resources and support they need. Celebrate their successes and learn from their failures. Keep them informed and updated on any changes or issues.

By giving undivided attention to your supervisors, you will help them improve their leadership skills and enhance their engagement, satisfaction, and retention. You will also create a positive ripple effect on your employees, customers, and partners. You will also boost your company’s performance, reputation, and image.

If you want to learn more about how to be a CareFull Supervisor and why it matters, order copies of The CareFull Supervisor: The Tools to Succeed and Be the Supervisor Employees Want to Have by Kevin Burns for every supervisor on your team. Purchase in bulk from the FreisenPress online bookstore.

This book is a game-changer for anyone in a leadership role. It will equip you with the tools to excel as a supervisor and the skills to create a workplace that inspires loyalty and teamwork.