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.