Another Handful of Tips 76 – Managing Others

Five of the best tips when managing people

To get the best work from people follow these simple basic principles.

1. People must know exactly what is expected of them

They should have a precise job specification.
What is required? What is their job? It must be clear and put in writing in a job description stating to whom they are responsible.

People appreciate being told what their long-term prospects are and future possibilities if they perform well.

2. Workers must have a safe working environment

They must have a safe, healthy workplace and be given the tools to do a good job.

3. Give them responsibility

If clear guidance is given, delegate to where the action takes place. That’s the place where the quick decisions need to be made.

Too much red tape and too many controls frustrate workers and prevent them doing their best work.

They must be trusted and given responsibility, but a good two-way communication system is essential. All changes must be explained and discussed fully.

4. Give and encourage feedback

Have regular and honest discussions with staff to guide and encourage them. Keep them fully informed of developing situations and proposed planned changes.

Honest feedback from both staff and clients must be encouraged.

Relevant worthwhile training must be given to keep people up-to-date with new skills required and developing situations. Training workshops can be a good time to get honest feedback.

5. Praise and reward good work

If people make an extra effort they should be praised and rewarded.

Praise can be given publicly but constructive criticism should be given in private.

Rewards given to encourage workers can take many forms such a pay rise, a gift, time off, a car park or the latest equipment to do a better job.

A letter telling an employee they are doing a good job is a great incentive to encourage them to progress further.

Geoffrey Moss

“Successful management requires clarification of purpose, total commitment, and first class team work.”

Source: “Secrets for New Managers” first published by Moss Associates Ltd., New Zealand (www//mossassociates.co.nz) and Cengage Learning Asia, Singapore. Also available as a hard copy and as an e-book from Amazon.com and VitalSource.