Difficulties, gratification of supervising

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Patricia Souder
  • 90th Force Support Squadron
F.E. WARREN AIR FORCE, Wyo. --  Soon after I graduated from airman leadership school, I became the supervisor of two senior airmen. 

Although I was ready and excited to be in charge of Airmen, I did not know exactly what I was getting myself into. 

How could I supervise two senior airmen when I was one myself a couple of months before? What could I do for them that they couldn't do for themselves? 

As it turned out, I was able to do a lot - the material I had learned in ALS had manifested into real life situations. 

I was not alone in my trials and tribulations as a new supervisor; many first-time and first-line supervisors can relate to my journey. This transition included many difficulties within me and my new subordinates. And although it may be difficult at times, leading people can be a very gratifying experience. 

But, to lead people, you must first know what a leader is. 

Leadership has many meanings. Being a leader is not just about being in charge of someone, it is about mentoring, training and getting personally involved while supervising. 

Enthusiasm is something a leader should possess as well as the ability to foster enthusiasm within their subordinates. With that energy, leaders can motivate their people to perform those difficult tasks. 

A leader must also be able to guide their subordinates step-by-step and pick them up when they fall. 

Leadership is not always easy. 

This is especially true when transitioning from being responsible for only yourself to having the responsibility of someone else in your hands. 

Supervising your subordinates and leading them to the correct path is challenging and can be intimidating at times. There may be times when you think, "Am I making the correct decision about my subordinates, and how will this decision affect their careers?"
Having confidence and being unbiased will yield right decisions.
Knowing where and when to get help is another key to leadership. We are not alone in our path, and our own leadership is there to guide us when situations become difficult. Supervisors should not only be there during the bad times; they should be there in the good times as well.
Some of the best memories of my military career have been watching my Airmen succeed. It is a great feeling to give your subordinates all the training and tools they need to be well-rounded Airmen and empower them to do their best.
The gratification comes when their best exceeds your expectations. The sense of pride is immeasurable when you know you have taken care of them personally and professionally well enough to see them grow into the next generation of leaders.
It does not matter if you have one, four or 15 subordinates. It is important to know our Airmen and lead them according to their attributes.
For those senior airmen and staff sergeants who are about to get their first subordinate, I want to leave you with this: Being a supervisor is like riding a rollercoaster. It has its ups and downs, but remember to always enjoy the ride and be the leader that makes a difference.