Resource Information for Supervisors & Managers
Strictly Classified
An Informational Bulletin Published by the Personnel Commission
The Role of the Supervisor
While there may be some variation between specific aspects of different supervisory positions, there are a
number of fundamental responsibilities that link all supervisory positions within the Los Angeles Community
College District. At the most basic level, a good supervisor should provide leadership within his/her department, give direction to employees he/she directly supervises, and ensure staff members have access to the
skills and resources necessary to complete their duties effectively and efficiently. Moreover, a supervisor
should maintain a positive work environment in which staff members are able to communicate openly and respectfully with each other and feel that their contributions are valued.
To be an effective leader, a supervisor should:
Have a solid understanding of the goals and objectives of both his/her specific department and the
LACCD, as well as how his/her position fits into accomplishing those goals and objectives.
• Have the ability to clearly communicate those goals and objectives to staff members.
• Set the tone for the department culture by treating all staff members with respect, acknowledging the contributions of others, and maintaining a positive attitude.
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While overseeing others is a central component of supervising, managing personal productivity is also
important to:
Establish priorities.
Delegate responsibility to others as appropriate.
Establish a culture of efficiency and integrity within the office so that things run smoothly even if a supervisor isn’t present.
• Take responsibility when you make a mistake.
• Avoid procrastinating.
• Develop a reputation for being productive and efficient by having set agendas for all meetings, and starting
and ending meetings on time.
• If you are unable to complete a task or meet a deadline, communicate this to the appropriate people in a
timely manner.
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MEMBERS OF THE PERSONNEL COMMISSION
James A. Srott, Chair
June 2007
David Iwata
Calvin W. Hall, Ed.D.
Karen Martin, Personnel Director
(213) 891-2333
Set your staff members up for success!
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Address performance issues promptly.
Whether it is constructive criticism or positive recognition, be sure to provide feedback regularly.
Let your staff know that you believe in them and their abilities, and that you are invested in their success.
Provide training for staff members who need to improve their skills in order to successfully complete their
duties.
Clearly communicate goals and expectations to all staff members.
Make yourself approachable and available to staff members so that they feel comfortable sharing their concerns, as well as discussing new ideas.
Try to spend one-on-one time with all of your staff members.
Find out the professional goals of all your staff members. If it is appropriate, try assist your staff with accomplishing those goals through mentorship and training.
Supervisors are part of the team too!
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Establish goals for the team, as well as for individuals.
Make sure others see you as a team player by assisting staff members when necessary and listening to the
concerns of the team.
Follow through with commitments you make to the team.
Communicate the outcome of team projects with all members.
Discourage behaviors that weaken team spirit such as gossiping.
How can I improve my skills and abilities?
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Stay up-to-date on new technology and changing industry practices.
Seek advice from people with more experience.
Be aware of your weaknesses and aim to improve them.
Through their actions and behaviors, supervisors undoubtedly set the tone for the office environment. Supervisors who are aware of their role in accomplishing department and District goals, fulfill their personal responsibilities in a timely and quality manner, are amenable to change, and treat others with respect are more likely to
oversee a positive work environment and lead their staff members to success.