How can you sharpen your analytical skills as a supervisor?

2 Gather and organize data

Once you have a clear problem and goal, you need to gather and organize the data and information that will help you analyze the situation and evaluate the alternatives. Depending on the nature and scope of your problem, you may need to use different sources and methods to collect data, such as surveys, interviews, reports, observations, experiments, or online tools. You also need to organize the data in a way that makes sense and allows you to see patterns, trends, and relationships. You can use tables, charts, graphs, diagrams, or software to help you with this step.

3 Analyze and interpret data

After you have gathered and organized the data, you need to analyze and interpret it using various techniques and tools. You need to apply logic, reasoning, and critical thinking to examine the data, identify the causes and effects, test the assumptions and hypotheses, and draw conclusions. You also need to use quantitative and qualitative methods to measure and evaluate the data, such as statistics, calculations, formulas, models, or frameworks. You can use software, calculators, or online tools to help you with this step.

4 Choose and apply a decision-making model

Once you have analyzed and interpreted the data, you need to choose and apply a decision-making model that suits your problem and goal. There are different types of decision-making models and processes that you can use, depending on the complexity, urgency, and uncertainty of your situation. Some examples are the rational model, the intuitive model, the satisficing model, the incremental model, or the Vroom-Yetton-Jago model. Each model has its own advantages and disadvantages, so you need to understand the assumptions, criteria, and steps involved in each one.

5 Evaluate and communicate the decision

After you have chosen and applied a decision-making model, you need to evaluate and communicate the decision you have made. You need to assess the outcomes and impacts of your decision, as well as the risks and uncertainties involved. You also need to monitor and review the results and feedback of your decision, and make adjustments or improvements if necessary. You also need to communicate your decision effectively to your team and stakeholders, using clear and concise language, data visualization, and persuasion techniques.

6 Develop and maintain your analytical skills

Finally, you need to develop and maintain your analytical skills as a supervisor by practicing and learning continuously. You can sharpen your analytical skills by reading books, articles, or blogs on topics related to data analysis, decision-making, or critical thinking. You can also take courses, workshops, or webinars on these topics, or join online communities or forums where you can exchange ideas and insights with other professionals. You can also seek feedback and mentoring from your peers, managers, or experts, and apply their suggestions and advice to your own work.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?