Hi Mark, and thanks for contacting CTB.
Take a look at our Chapter 15, section 2, which addresses the entire process of supervision. The answer to your question will depend upon where in the entire supervision process the need for question occurs and the specific circumstances. A few examples are provided within Section 2. If you enter "supervision" in the search box (upper right hand corner) you will find other resources both within and linked to CTB. Those may be helpful.
In general, it is important to have created an environment of open communication throughout your program, to encourage questions from the supervisee and to provide helpful answers. If you can communicate that mistakes are learning opportunities for both the supervisee and the organization, you are more likely to hear about mistakes and suggestions about how to improve the work tasks. It is helpful to give accurate feedback, to clarify tasks and responsibilities, and to intervene early when you see things that need correction.
If your organization is large enough to have a Human Resources person, it is helpful to talk with that person about how to view mistakes and how the organization wants the supervision process to be conducted.
Supervision is a very important part of organizational success. You might also want to take available workshops on supervision, in order to strengthen your own skills.
