When you are in a leadership position within a business or government organization, you will have subordinates that not only work beneath you, but that you are responsible for training and shaping for possible leadership roles. This is often referred to as developing subordinates or employee development. What you are attempting to develop is their leadership, self-discipline and confidence, as well as other skills that will lead to their future success.
Communicate what you expect from your subordinates. Do not leave them guessing what will be coming around the next corner. Explain their responsibilities very clearly and what your daily routine is going to be like.
Observe your subordinates carefully. Identify those who are doing well and those who need more development. Subordinates in need of more development will require extra guidance and motivation.
Reward subordinates who are doing well. This can be simple recognition in front of the rest of your subordinates for a job well done, which can help evoke confidence in those who are doing well and set an example for those who are not.
Assess your subordinates regularly. This can involve specific tests or challenges, or simply observing your subordinates. Make the results of the test clear, and explain to each subordinate how improvements can be made.
Relate to them on their level. If subordinates feel they are on the same team as you, it will be easier to motivate them.
Set up plans that are easy to follow. Ask questions of your subordinates to make sure they are on the same page with you. Also, if plans are expressed clearly, it makes it easier for you to determine if they have been accomplished.
Alter the way you deal with subordinates when needed. Sticking stubbornly to a way of doing things that isn't working will only lose you respect in the eyes of your subordinates. However, keep any new rules fair and balanced for everyone.
