It is all too easy to blur the lines between superior and subordinate.
The problem with doing this is that it can lead to confusion, resentment, and even conflict in the workplace. When superiors start treating their subordinates as if they are equals, or when subordinates start acting entitled, it can create a lot of tension.
In order to avoid this, it is important to be aware of the four ways to avoid blurring the line between superior and subordinate.
Don’t Forget Who You Are
It is important to remember that you are the superior, and they are the subordinate. This means that you should always be respectful and professional. You should never act like you are above them or better than them in any way. This will only serve to create resentment and conflict.
Remember, it is your job to lead and guide them, not to be their friend. While it is important to be friendly and approachable, you should never let your subordinates see you as anything other than a superior. This doesn’t mean that you can’t be friends with your subordinates outside of work, but during work hours, it is important to maintain a professional relationship.
Be Firm
While you want to be friendly and approachable, you also need to be firm. If your subordinates are not meeting your expectations, then you need to hold them accountable.
If you let them get away with things that they shouldn’t, then they will only continue to do so. This will lead to a decline in work quality and morale.
It is important to set the standards high and make sure that your subordinates know what is expected of them. If they don’t meet those expectations, then they need to be held accountable. Otherwise, you are only setting yourself up for problems down the road.
Don’t Disrespect Them
Even though you are the superior, it is important to respect your subordinates. This means that you should never belittle them or speak to them in a disrespectful way. Doing so will only serve to create tension and conflict.
It is important to remember that they are people just like you and deserve to be treated with respect. If you wouldn’t want someone speaking to you in a certain way, then don’t speak to your subordinates that way either. Show them the same courtesy and respect that you would want for yourself. Respecting your subordinates doesn’t mean that you have to be best friends with them, but it does mean treating them fairly and with respect.
Don’t Take Advantage of Them
Just because you are the superior doesn’t mean that you can take advantage of your subordinate’s time and energy. If you do, then they will only resent you for it. It is important to remember that they have a life outside of work and shouldn’t be expected to always be available for your needs.
While there will be times when you need them to put in extra hours or work on weekends, try not to make it a habit. If you do, then they will quickly start to burn out, and their work will suffer as a result. Only ask them to do what is reasonable and necessary. Don’t take advantage of their good nature or their willingness to help.
Don’t forget who you are, be firm, don’t disrespect them, and don’t take advantage of them. If you can avoid these four things, then you should be able to avoid blurring the lines between superior and subordinate.
Of course, it is also important to be fair, reasonable, and respectful. But if you can keep these four things in mind, then you will be well on your way to maintaining a healthy workplace relationship with your subordinates.
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