Dr. Patricia Kapper

Alexis, When a task is to be delegated, there should be a benefit to both the manager and the employee. The manager needs to take into consideration the skill sets of the employee to whom the task is being delegated. Will completion of that task by the employee allow them to grow professionally. The dialog that you mention needs to occur as well in order for the employee to gain something as a result of this experience.

What impact do you think that the current state of the economy has on employee retention?

Alexis, How do you think the current econonic situation impacts employee retention?

Alexis, Those are great strategies. I particularly like the regular evaluations of performance. This is one area where most supervisors fail, especially concerning the "regular" nature of the feedback. Employees want and deserve feedback, whether it is positive or negative. The open door policy helps to create an environment where employees want to work. They feel appreciated when a supervisor takes the time to acknowledge them and truly listen to what they have to say. Pat

Hi Alexis, Those are great ideas for putting a candidate at ease. It is also important that the administrative assistant, if you have one, establish a comfortable environment, too. Offering coffee or a glass of water is a nice courtesy to extend. Pat

Hi Alexis, Welcome to the class! You make some excellent points in your post. Asking standard questions of all candidates also gives you an opportunity to compare them to one another. The copious notes is a great idea because after interviewing several candidates, the notes will jog your memory as each is considered. It is also important to tell them in advance that you will be taking notes so they realize that it is a standard part of the process. What kind of things do you do to establish repoire with a candidate?