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How To Manage Relations With Your Supervisor
- Wednesday October 2nd, 2013
- 5,430
Employee and supervisor
Education jobs are just like any other employment in terms of reporting relationships. Whether they hold down elementary, secondary, or higher education jobs, workers usually have a supervisor. While they are conducting their job search, they may not even know the title of this person. What they do know is that they are expected to get along with him or her. Even if the two people are polar opposites, they must work together harmoniously.
Relationships are a two-way street and this is no different with supervisor-subordinate relationships in education jobs. Supervisors are expected to be in the loop regarding issues and progress, so workers should provide them with regular updates. Giving every detail of an issue or educational plan is not necessary, unless requested. Instead, summarize issues concisely and provide a few alternative resolutions, explaining which is your desired solution and why. Supervisors like to know that workers are thinking critically about an issue.
As education jobs go, supervisors do not have it easy. Every supervisor would love a member of the faculty or staff to offer assistance. Do this whenever difficult projects arise by asking the supervisor what you can do to make his or her role easier. Helping to lighten the load reduces stress on the supervisor and shows initiative. Experience gained from the added responsibility may prove useful in the future.
Education jobs come with inherent rights that educators should be aware of and exercise carefully. An ethical approach is recommended at all times. For example, just because educators receive sick days does not mean they must use all of them each year. Sick time should only be taken when a worker is actually sick, not when he or she just wants to lay around all day. Along the same lines, providing ample notice for any needed leave period is recommended. Give more notice than the policy requires because the job search for a temporary replacement may take a while.
Many education jobs are unionized positions, providing added job protection. However, this does not mean that an educator has a right to do whatever he or she pleases. The union will only throw its weight behind worthwhile issues, not those involving workers who abuse the system. Even if the supervisor does not have the ability to fire the worker, he or she can make the professional life a difficult one.
Educators should take time to illustrate their understanding of institutional goals and the priorities of the supervisor. They can do this by their words and actions both within and outside of the classroom. Showing respect for the supervisor and administration as a whole by never challenging these individuals but instead working through the proper channels to achieve the desired results is much better than creating an altercation.
Developing and maintaining a harmonious working relationship with a supervisor has many benefits. Educators are more likely to be recognized for their ideas and accomplishments. The relationship becomes a give and take, providing opportunities for development. The school system will go far when characterized by productive supervisor-worker relationships.
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