The goal of the Fundamentals of Supervision (FOS) series is to provide supervisors with the tools they need to effectively guide and oversee the work of others. Each of the six courses in the series (see list below) is designed as a stand-alone program. However, these courses apply consistent concepts and values that are designed to complement one another. Employees who complete the entire series will receive a certificate of completion.
Essentials of Supervision – This four-hour workshop is designed to be highly-interactive when introducing the five core components of supervision: planning, organizing, staffing, leading and evaluating. The course will use Kent State University examples to illustrate the components and group exercises to apply the information in a real-life context.
Interpersonal Communication for Supervisors – In this four-hour workshop, participants will examine the components of communication: verbal communication, active listening, non-verbal communication and feedback. Participants will use group discussion to share experiences and apply the information in a supervisory context.
Employment Law and Harassment Prevention for Supervisors – A four-hour workshop that examines what supervisors must know regarding: Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (illegal discrimination), Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) of 1967, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and Harassment Prevention. This course will use case studies and video exercises to apply the information in a meaningful way so all participants can take a more active role in ensuring that their work environment is compliant with the employment laws and free from harassment.
Employee Staffing and Interviewing – This four-hour workshop will examine the university’s procedure for effective staffing. Participants will learn about the PDQ, the job analysis, the job description and the supervisor’s role in the staffing process. In addition other important forms such as the AGID and the role of the Office of Affirmative Action will be discussed. The second portion of this workshop will examine how to use behavioral interviewing as a tool in assessing and selecting candidates for a position. Participants will be given an opportunity to practice behavioral interviewing techniques in a role-play situation.
Planning and Decision Making for Supervisors – A four-hour workshop where participants will study the components of a plan and the supervisors role in planning as well as various methods and techniques to conduct an effective plan. Participants will also examine the difference between decision-making and problem solving and how supervisors can utilize consensus decision-making. This interactive workshop uses group exercises and case study to reinforce the learning.
Supervising Successful Performance – This one-day workshop will closely examine the role of the supervisor as a coach and provide a coaching model for supervisors to use for improving employee performance. Participants will also examine several different types of difficult behavior and how a supervisor can identify and modify those behaviors to make employees more successful. Lastly, attendees at this workshop will identify the resources available and the proactive steps, informally and formally, to improve employee performance. This workshop uses group discussion and video exercises to reinforce the learning.
For more information on the Fundamentals of Supervision series, contact Employee Relations and Development at 330-672-2901.