How should new supervisors approach learning about their supervisees?

A new supervisor should approach learning about their supervisees by understanding their backgrounds, goals, and strengths. This understanding is foundational for building strong working relationships and fostering a supportive and productive environment. When supervisors invest time in getting to know their supervisees on a personal level, they can tailor their management style to meet individual needs, understand motivations, and recognize the unique contributions each supervisee brings to the team.

Knowing the backgrounds of supervisees can help supervisors be more empathetic and supportive, particularly in understanding the various challenges their team members may face in both their personal and professional lives. Understanding goals allows supervisors to align tasks and responsibilities with career aspirations, promoting motivation and job satisfaction. Additionally, recognizing each individual’s strengths enables supervisors to delegate tasks effectively and cultivate a collaborative atmosphere where each supervisee can thrive and develop further.

Engaging with supervisees in a holistic manner promotes a positive workplace culture and leads to better outcomes both in terms of individual performance and team cohesion.