Overseeing Work is a Skills 

The often under-appreciated role of managers involves a  multifaceted task: overseeing and managing the work of their team.  This seemingly straightforward responsibility is, in reality, a blend of  delegation, coaching, communication, and adept juggling.  Successful oversight demands an in-depth understanding of team  members, recognition of their strengths and weaknesses,  awareness of working preferences and development needs, and the  ability to swiftly assess task durations based on the team member involved. Moreover, providing effective and constructive feedback is  a crucial aspect of this managerial role. 

Challenges and Rewards of Work Oversight 

For many new managers, overseeing work poses a significant  challenge. Building familiarity with team members, comprehending  their work, understanding task requirements, and estimating  timeframes add layers of complexity. However, developing this skill  over time, coupled with patience, can transform it into a valuable  asset. 

Initiating Work Oversight: New and Existing Teams 

When stepping into a managerial role, whether forming a new team  or joining an existing one, managers face two common scenarios.  In the first scenario, team members and roles are new,  necessitating the establishment of a sensible division of  responsibilities. In the second scenario, existing roles need  evaluation to determine the most effective way to distribute tasks.  Both situations demand a flexible approach, encouraging team  members to communicate workload concerns and redistributing  tasks to achieve a balance. 

Building Connections and Understanding Team Dynamics 

As a manager, investing time in getting to know each team member  is crucial. Understanding their motivations, work preferences,  strengths, and weaknesses is essential. Identifying whether team  members are aspiring for promotions or content with their current  positions helps in allocating future work strategically. This  

knowledge ensures a mix of assignments, including stretch projects  for those seeking challenges. 

Key Skills for Effective Work Oversight 

While various skills contribute to effective work oversight, some  stand out in this managerial role: 

1. Delegation Skills: 

Learning to delegate is an art. It requires self-awareness and the  ability to communicate control preferences effectively.  Understanding the comfort levels of both the manager and team  members is vital for a positive delegation experience. 

2. Feedback Skills: 

Providing effective feedback is an art in itself. Constructive  feedback, focused on specific behaviour and its impact, delivered  promptly and at an opportune moment, is essential for meaningful  communication. 

3. Coaching Skills: 

A coaching approach involves acknowledging that individuals have  the answers to their problems and need support to learn. Managers,  acting as coaches, empower team members to find solutions.  Encouraging a “try it and see” mentality fosters a culture of  experimentation and learning. 

Embracing Flexibility in Work Allocation 

Acknowledging that work allocations are fluid and flexible is crucial.  Communicating with the team about the possibility of adjusting  tasks based on their feedback helps manage workload variations  effectively. Encouraging a dynamic approach ensures the team is  adaptable to peaks and troughs in demand. 

In conclusion, the role of overseeing work is a dynamic and  nuanced responsibility that demands a combination of skills,  patience, and adaptability. Managers who master the art of work  oversight contribute significantly to the success and cohesion of  their teams. 

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