Business Training Seminars

Bart Gragg

When blue collar workers move into management there are at least nine changes in their routine that have to be recognized and dealt with. What often happens though is they are shown an office the size of a broom closet, given technology they may not be familiar with, and told "Call me if you have any questions." It is almost as if the broom closet is a telephone booth and we expect them to put on a cape and be up and flying immediately.

Alas, you and I know it doesn't work that way. It is a sure fire way to set them up to fail. Here are a few tips that can help you help them succeed.

1. Take time to sit with them in a neutral, private place and have them write or talk about the changes they see in their environment. Let them get that off their chest, and also recognize how that might affect their behavior as well. Talk to them about things like:
   1. Being inside vs. outside
   2. The changes in noises and sounds
   3. How they prefer to communicate - face to face, email, phone, which works best for them.
2. Introduce them to their new peers. Then go back and do it again, this time with the intent that each of you understands how and what needs to be communicated and when.  Don't leave them swinging in the breeze until the fan has to deal with the smell.  Use assessments with the group so that they understand how behavior affects communications styles and how that works within the group.
3. Set measurable objectives - but here's the key to this. Make the objectives important to them and about things that make sense to them.  They do not see how they have control over EBITDA or Gross Margins, but they do see they have control over paperwork flow, signed job tickets, inventory levels, documentation, etc. These things DO affect profit and EBITDA, but they are meaningful on their level.

If your organization needs help with or a speaker on this topic, please contact me at 925.757.7473 and mention MVP Seminars.

Bart Gragg
Blue Collar University®

January 25 , 2010    Posted by: Bart Gragg    |    Add Comment    |    Comments(0)

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