Every supervisor should see himself or herself as a coach and mentor with responsibility to help each employee be the best he or she can be. When supervisors lack the time or technical skills to do the training personally, they can delegate the task to an experienced employee with excellent job performance. Off-the-job and online training programs also can help employees perform better. Training and development is a continual process, not just a one-time effort.

Supervisors must determine the skills employees need to do their jobs better. Factors such as failure to meet organizational objectives, operating problems, introduction of new machines and equipment, and addition of new job responsibilities to a position can help the supervisor pinpoint training needs. The supervisor should constantly monitor the training that each person needs. Instructional objectives and a procedure for evaluating the effectiveness of training are essential.

Also, supervisors must recognize the need for their own training and development, and they should explore all opportunities for career development. Supervisors should consider having career plans to help them chart and monitor their longterm career progression. P-9687