Supervisor Reflection

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This essay will discuss how I have personally managed some of the difficulties of transitioning between the positions of constable on a shift, moving to the position of a shift supervisor (acting sergeant), returning as a member on the same shift and working beside the same shift colleagues. I will discuss the issues that I have faced, such as the leadership transition, human resource management and how I was able to influence my peers, both inexperienced and experienced. I will reflect on leading and mentoring my colleagues and how this can assist the transition from shift member to a supervisor. I will also discuss the common issues that I have faced when working alongside my colleagues, after the transition from supervisor to shift member. …show more content…

Different shifts and individuals that have a different personality and culture that I would describe as different to mine. As described by Christopher, police occupational culture is ‘extremely powerful, entrenched, and hidden’ (2015). So from a supervisory perspective, leading a different shift does require reflection on how I would lead them and their members. They were required to reflect if they are on the right track regarding, policy and procedures. As a supervisor you may also not be aware of some of the training, operational and importantly personal issues or problems that an individual may be having, until you lead them directly and have a supervision …show more content…

Again, there are difficulties with leading experienced constables, as I found that they may be more experienced in certain areas or have had more time in the area I was working at. They may question some of my decisions, or in fact provide timely advice about the people that I was dealing with in that location. Transitional leadership is important in this case, as a leader has to tailor their style of leadership to the makeup of an experienced team. As described in the study by (Standing Bear, 1986) in the paper by Campbell and Kodz, a leader who may alter their leadership (situational leadership) to the mature group is perceived to be more effective (2011). As previously discussed, I found that different styles of leadership are important.

For example, when leading a shift of mainly inexperienced officers, transformational leadership might suit me as I was focusing on inspiring followers and placing their self-interest aside for the good of the organisation. This included emphasising the value of organisational goals, mobilising the efforts of followers to implement change, and setting a moral example that builds on the ethical motives of followers. This also included when working in a more experienced group of officers, so I could inspire their values and beliefs in the organisation. (Pearson-Goff & Herrington,

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