The Employee With More Technical Expertise Than the Supervisor

When evaluating the employee who has more technical expertise than the supervisor, it is important to:

• Focus on desired results and outcomes




• Ask clarifying questions to create a shared understanding. Avoid over-focusing on how something is done (the method) rather than on what is done (outcome).




• Agree on the vision and goals that are critical.




• Clarifying questions also assist in determining the employee’s expectations of the supervisor in terms of support, resources, and direction.




• Consult with other supervisors, or experts in the field, if expectations or direction become unclear.




• Ask the employee, 'How would you handle this situation?'




• Achieve a shared understanding of expected results.