When blue collar workers move into management there are at least nine changes in their routine that have to be recognized and dealt with. What often happens though is they are shown an office the size of a broom closet, given technology they may not be familiar with, and told “Call me if you have any questions.” It is almost as if the broom closet is a telephone booth and we expect them to put on a cape and be up and flying immediately.
Alas, you and I know it doesn’t work that way. It is a sure fire way to set them up to fail. Here are a few tips that can help you help them succeed.
- Take time to sit with them in a neutral, private place and have them write or talk about the changes they see in their environment. Let them get that off their chest, and also recognize how that might affect their behavior as well. Talk to them about things like:
- Being inside vs. outside
- The changes in noises and sounds
- How they prefer to communicate – face to face, email, phone, which works best for them.
- Introduce them to their new peers. Then go back and do it again, this time with the intent that each of you understands how and what needs to be communicated and when. Don’t leave them swinging in the breeze until the fan has to deal with the smell. Use assessments with the group so that they understand how behavior affects communications styles and how that works within the group.
- Set measurable objectives – but here’s the key to this. Make the objectives important to them and about things that make sense to them. They do not see how they have control over EBITDA or Gross Margins, but they do see they have control over paperwork flow, signed job tickets, inventory levels, documentation, etc. These things DO affect profit and EBITDA, but they are meaningful on their level.
If you want help as a manager or to support a manager or supervisor, we should talk. Call me at 925.757.7473 or contact me here.
Bart Gragg
Blue Collar University® – It’s What’s Above The Collar That Counts!
New manager and supervisor training and orientation programs.
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{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
These specific, clear tips are useful for a company introducing an individual into a new management position, whatever their background. On the surface they appear to be common sense steps, but so many companies overlook these key components. Thank you Bart for specific ways to ensure success for the employee and the company.