Capability Plus Skill Set
From the Ask Tom mailbag – Question: How does someone make the leap from technician to manager? I see it all the time in IT work, and I think it’s why there are so many bad managers out there. Isn’t...
View ArticleCritical for Growth
Nicole was still stymied over our discussion about the role of the supervisor. “But if I am not actively working on the line with everyone else, I don’t feel like I accomplished anything at the end of...
View ArticleShe Still Left Early
“What was different from this past Saturday, than the Saturday before?” I asked. “The Saturday before,” Karyn started, “Rachel left early in a huff. This Saturday, I talked to her early in the shift,...
View ArticleThe Difference From Team Leader to Supervisor
From the Ask Tom mailbag – Question: I was just promoted from team leader to supervisor. My boss told me not to worry, things wouldn’t be that different. With all due respect, I think things will be...
View ArticleNot a Matter of Skill
“I don’t understand why John doesn’t do better,” Marissa complained. “I constantly have to give him critical feedback, and I know he doesn’t like it, I can see it in his face. If he would only pay...
View ArticleBut, He Was Always a Team Player
“Are you having fun with all this?” I asked, smiling behind a very serious intent. “Hell, no,” Gerald replied. “I’m ready to just ditch the guy. But he has eight years of good performance in his file,...
View ArticleSystem Solution
“So, the Supervisor’s solution to fuel pricing cost more money in overtime and extra travel distance to the cheapest pump?” I nodded. “What would have been a Manager’s solution? You’re a Manager, what...
View ArticleA Manager’s Focus
Nathan survived his next meeting. No one walked out. It was a productive ten minutes. Maybe his team was going to give him a chance. “Now what?” he asked. “Prime Directive,” I stated flatly. “Prime...
View ArticleContext of Uncertainty
“Holding the manager accountable for output still seems odd,” I said. “There are still things that can go wrong, out of the hands of the manager.” “Yes, that would seem odd, but we have to think about...
View ArticleCannot Continue This Way
“Our system creates predictability,” Ruben explained. “It creates predictability without stress. It allows us to do our maintenance at the best times, allows us to properly inspect our raw materials,...
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