Communication 101

I believe one of the most important communication tips that Susan Jennings offered was "practice listening more than talking."  And when listening be sure to clarify what the person is saying and then define expectations clearly.  As a supervisor you should also recognize the different communication styles of your staff and strive to relate with all of them. 

Where we are now and where we are going

Our library is a friendly library; however, I would like us to become more computer service oriented.  I would like to train my part-time staff member so that she is more comfortable helping patrons use the computer and also enhance her computer skills so that she may be more beneficial to the patrons.  I believe with a few lessons in Word, Excel and e-mail, she will be more confident and helping our patrons overcome their anxieties about the computer.

Performance Management

I thought it was very interesting that Maggie Bahou reinforced the practice of providing continuous feedback for staff members as part of the Performance Management concept.    Currently our library system only does an annual evaluation wherein the Director does the evaluations; however, no co-worker input is sought by the Director.  Also as staff members, we are not ask to evaluate or provide any feedback for the Director in any way.
Ideally, I feel our system could be made better by conducting evaluations at least quarterly.  And more so as specific issues arise.  I believe the staff member/ who made need to adjust their work responsibilities should be addressed privately and not the entire staff addressed as a group.  I feel a manager should take into consideration personality, home life, and work effort/environment when investigating a potential personnel problem.   And likewise take these aspects into consideration when addressing that problem.  
I felt the quote "People don't quit companies; they quit managers." is very accurate. 

PMLI 2014 - Staff Development

Currently our staff is not encouraged to know each other on a personal basis.  By applying concepts within Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs Theory to help develop and grow the personnel within our branches, I believe the staff could work more as a team. I would like to see the staff develop bonds and friendships that would ultimately enhance the library's ties with the community it serves.