Strong competencies help supervisors:

• Build trust.
• Address challenges constructively.
• Align individual performance with the university’s goals.
• Effectively guide, support, and build their teams and departments.
• Create a more engaged and productive workforce.

The competencies on this page are intended to guide supervisors in focusing their own learning and growth efforts so they can become more confident and effective in the supervisory role. It's important to note that this list is not exhaustive. Needed competencies may vary based on the specific supervisory role and context.

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Leadership

Supervisors need to possess leadership skills to inspire, motivate, and guide their team members. This includes setting clear expectations, providing direction, making informed decisions, setting boundaries, and fostering a positive and inclusive work culture.

Communication

Effective communication is crucial for supervisors to convey information clearly, listen actively, provide feedback, resolve conflicts, and build strong relationships with team members, peers, and stakeholders.

Emotional Intelligence

Supervisors with strong emotional intelligence can understand and manage their own emotions and those of others. This competency enables them to empathize, handle interpersonal dynamics, navigate conflicts, and promote a positive work environment.

Coaching and Development

Supervisors should be skilled in coaching and developing their team members. This includes providing constructive feedback, identifying individual strengths and areas for improvement, supporting professional growth, and offering opportunities for skill-building.

Problem Solving and Decision Making

Supervisors need to be adept at analyzing problems, evaluating options, and making timely and informed decisions. They should also encourage critical thinking and problem-solving skills within their team.

Team Building and Collaboration

Supervisors should be able to build cohesive and high-performing teams. This involves promoting collaboration, fostering a sense of belonging, resolving conflicts, and leveraging diverse talents and perspectives to achieve common goals.

Performance Management

Supervisors should have the ability to set performance expectations, monitor progress, provide regular feedback, conduct performance evaluations, and address performance issues effectively. They should also recognize and reward employee achievements.

Adaptability and Flexibility

Supervisors need to be adaptable and resilient in the face of change, uncertainty, and evolving priorities. They should be open to new ideas, willing to learn, and able to manage change.

Ethical Conduct

Supervisors should demonstrate strong ethical behavior, integrity, and professionalism. They should adhere to university policies, promote fairness, and handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.

Time Management and Organization

Supervisors need strong time management and organizational skills to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, delegate effectively, and ensure the efficient and smooth operation of their team.

Technical Expertise

Depending on the type of work, supervisors may require specific technical knowledge and skills related to the area of work. This can include specific software, regulations, processes, or equipment.