Fundamentals of Supervision

Book: Supervision: Key Link to Productivity 8e, Rue, Leslie and Byaas, Lloyd
Chapter 4 - Ethics and Organizational Politics

1. Ethics in the Workplace
   Ethics are standards or principles of conduct that govern the behavior of an individual or a group of individuals. A major problem in discussing them is that not every one agrees what is or is not ethical. A majority of the people in the workforce have felt that they have been pressured into acting unethically.


2. Code of Ethics
   A Code of Ethics is a written statement of principles that should be followed in the conduct of business. It generally will include things like payments of questionable nature, meals, gifts, and involvement in political activities. This code must be communicated to all employees.


3. Setting the Tone
   A supervisor should be the one that sets the tone for things. He should not tell people what to do but should be the one to set the example of what is to be done.


4. Areas Requiring Ethical Conduct by Supervisors
   
   
   1. Loyalty
      Where does the loyalties of the supervisor lie. If a supervisor is perceived as being interested in his own self interest, he will not be able to get the cooperation of his employees
   
   
   2. Human Relations
      Is a supervisor consistent in the way he treats employees? Does he deal with employees differently depending on the situation or group? Does he play favorites? How about his supervisors. Is there ways that he treat different supervisors in different ways?
   
   
   3. Overt Personal Actions
      This covers all other ares, especially the ones that may not be covered by company policy.


5. Dealing with Dishonest Employees
   The first step in dealing with a dishonest employee is admitting that you have one. To many supervisors do not admit to it. The next step would be to gather proof that the employee is acting in a dishonest way. When facts are gathered: 1)recognize the problem, 2) confront the employee 3) follow established disciplinary system. In sealing with peers and other managers would be different, but you should still get evidence. In this case you should give it to a supervisor to handle, and if possible problems with your employees should be passed on to them as well. Do not do nothing. Problems start small and get bigger. It will not go away on its own.
   
   
   1. Whistle-Blowing
      Whistle-blowing is the attempt by an employee or former employee to disclose what they belive to be as wrongdoing in or by the organization. In doing so, the person puts them self at risk. Federal law is set up to protect the whistle-blower.


6. Building a Supervisory Power Base
   Power is the ability to get others to respond favorably to instructions and orders, the ability you have over others to do what you ask. How does one increase their power base (ethically):
   Gain the Respect of Subordinates
   If subordinates respect you they will stand up for you in a time of crisis. This will be interpreted as a sign of power by others.
   Help Employees Be Successful
   This also promotes loyalty by your employees. If they believe that their supervisors are supportive and want them to succeed, they will want to please the supervisor.
   Be "in Good" with Your Boss
   Subordinates and peers will notice if you are in good with your boss.
   Seek Responsibility
   Responsibility is accountability for reaching objectives, using resources properly and adhering to organizational policy. Seek it out rather than wait for it to come to you. Others will sense you have power when you seek accountability.


7. Organization Politics
   Organizational politics is the practice of using means other than merit or good performance for bettering your position or seeking favor in the organization. It does not have to be sneaky or under handed.
   
   
   1. How to Keep Your Boss Happy
      Know your boss What makes him or her tick? It will help you in helping him or her.
      Be Loyal Defend boss when criticized, even when you do not agree 100%. Do not talk about boss behind back (it always comes back to you).
      Show Respect for Your boss Be on time for meetings and things of that nature. Listen to him respectfully. If you disagree with him on a subject do so in a tactful way.
      Seize Opportunities to Make Your Boss Look Good
      Avoid Antagonizing Other Departments
      Insist on Feedback Be able to accept negative feedback as part of this. Seek out opinions on how you have done things on a project, right or wrong. Do not depend on formal reviews.
      Help Take the Load off Your Boss Volunteer solutions to a problem. Talk about what has been accomplished not how bad things are.


8. Socializing with Other Members of the Organization
   Let things, take there course. Use common sense. Be yourself. Do not try to use rank. Do not make work-related promises with subordinates while socializing. Do not date or become romantically involved with subordinates.