Supervising is not fun (Lesson 8)

After two weeks in New Hampshire in a Casework Supervisor position, I think I have enough experience to conclude that being a supervisor is not fun. There is not much client contact except for exceptionally difficult cases. These cases may involve hostile clients who are difficult to manage by a caseworker or complicated needs that are difficult to figure out. I would rather be in FTF contact with clients. On the other hand, a casework assignment with a supervisor who is ineffective would be difficult as well. If I was a caseworker, I'd want someone like me as a supervisor. I am still far too new to hold myself up as a pinnacle of perfection, but I'm willing to see my insufficiencies and be open to learning. I am also VERY supportive of the needs of the caseworkers I supervise.

When a group of my caseworkers were assigned to enter data in CAS (the Red Cross database), I realized the room had become inhumanely hot. I told my supervisor that I would not allow my caseworkers in that room the following afternoon no matter how important the data entry or how willing a caseworker was. (Some volunteers have such zeal they will work in conditions that could prove harmful.) I made it clear that I would not allow them to work in that environment no matter what the repercussions might be for me (the worst being sent home, i.e., fired as a volunteer). After a moment of thought, my supervisor (a good man), agreed. The next day, I checked the room and the air conditioning was turned on! Although its effectiveness declined considerably by mid afternoon, it was better than the hot and stuffy room we had the day before.

I must admit to liking being a position to stand up for the group. If I am a supervisor, I would feel responsible and accountable for the well being of my caseworkers. In a way, I guess this is rewarding (i.e., fun?).

Will I do it again? I have more entries in the Blog to discuss what I have learned. Maybe when I'm done with this series, I'll have the answer to that question. But at this point, it's NOT a resounding Yes.