[Publib] Employee Problems

[Lise Chlebanowski]

I had the same experience when I was hired here. My best advice is to give it time. I had the "come to Jesus" meeting that someone else mentioned where everyone was allowed to air their grievances. That helped a bit, but not entirely. Their relationships had really broken down. In addition, the city asked us to change our hours and to accommodate the change, I divided part-time staff hours equally, meaning that staff that had been working only mornings forever, suddenly had to cover mornings and evenings. This did not go over really well, but everyone was treated the same. One person quit during the process and that was probably a good thing that helped heal the staff relations and brought in some new blood. 

Also, keep in mind that they aren't sure about you and they may just be testing the waters. Tell them what your expectations are, reward exceptional work and praise, praise, praise. (As I write this, I realize this is how I trained my dog...) Anyway, remember to thank them when they go above and beyond - come in early, stay late - switch with a co-worker, etc. Don't expect them to do anything you wouldn't do and in fact you should do whatever that anything is once in a while. My staff seems a lot more settled, getting along better and their work is excellent. Of course, there's the occasional hiccup, but otherwise it's pretty much smooth sailing. I think it just takes time. Sorry to ramble so much...good luck! 

Lisë Chlebanowski
Library Manager
Avondale Public Library
328 W. Western Ave.
Avondale, AZ   86323
lchlebanowski at avondale.org
623-478-3105
623-478-3809 Fax
 
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-----Original Message-----
From: publib-bounces at webjunction.org [mailto:publib-bounces at webjunction.org] On Behalf Of Hopkins County Library
Sent: Friday, December 08, 2006 6:56 PM
To: publib at webjunction.org
Subject: [Publib] Employee Problems

Publibbers,

I took over being Circulation Supervisor at my library mid February of this
year. This is my first real management position, and includes being in charge
of our seven library clerks. (They shelve, work circ desk, etc) Lately it
seems that a lot of mistakes are being made, personality conflicts between
staff members are emerging, and general chaos seems to be ensuing. Because I
am still "green" I'm not completely sure how to professionally but sternly let
my staff know that I expect them to all work together as a team, and complete
tasks correctly. 
I was hoping someone out there in Publib land can offer me some managerial advice.
Thanks in advance,
Miranda @ Hopkins County

VCI WebMail
http://www.vci.net

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