Whether you’re considering a supervisor position or are simply curious about your manager’s responsibilities in relation to your role, it is important to understand the function of supervisors in the workplace. A supervisor is anyone who oversees and manages a team or individual to ensure that they are performing effectively and satisfied in their role. The term “supervisor” usually refers to lower-level managerial positions, and these professionals often communicate information from their direct reports to senior management personnel.
While being a supervisor has its challenges, it’s also a rewarding position where you can help individuals achieve personal career goals. Here’s some background information to help you better understand what this role entails.
What does a supervisor do?
A supervisor oversees the day-to-day performance of employees. Depending on the company, a supervisor may manage a team, a shift or an entire department.
Successful supervisors have excellent organizational and communication skills. These skills help them transfer information from upper management to employees and communicate their teams’ performance or needs to high-level managers. In most cases, supervisors are experts in their field and can efficiently manage daily operations as a result.
What are the responsibilities of a supervisor in the workplace?
Supervisors assume several roles in the workplace. They are essential in managing a team’s efficiency and building a positive team environment, but the specifics of these tasks can vary based on the company.
A supervisor’s responsibilities often include:
1. Managing workflow
One of a supervisor’s most important responsibilities is managing a team. Often, supervisors create and oversee their team’s workflow, or the tasks required to complete a job. Supervisors must define goals, communicate objectives and monitor team performance.
2. Training new hires
When a new employee joins the team, their supervisor should help them understand their role and support them during their transition. This might include providing workplace orientation and explaining company policies or job duties. The supervisor may manage all onboarding activities, or they may work with the human resources department to make sure the new hire receives the guidance and information they need.
