Narrative:

PRC fosters an environment where staff members are encouraged to realize their full potential in the delivery of high-quality services. At the core of this commitment lies the pivotal role of on-going constructive and effective supervision.

A comprehensive Orientation Program provided by Westchester County (WC) is designed to acquaint staff with policies and procedures essential for effective supervision covering such topics as County Organization, Civil Service Programs/Services and Policies, Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Training, and Employee Assistance Resources.

Organizational charts serve as a visual representation of the chain of command, while job descriptions define the expectations and responsibilities associated with each position clarifying for team members an understanding of their role and how it contributes to collective success.

Aligned with Civil Service Rules as outlined in the WC Employee Handbook, employees undergo a 52-week probationary period. During this time supervisors diligently evaluate conduct, work quality, and overall performance. Constructive feedback is provided, and performance assessments are essential prerequisites for a permanent appointment.

Annual goals and objectives for each PRC Division are collaboratively set during senior management meetings. Directors disseminate these objectives through divisional staff meetings, providing a platform for discussion and expectation review. Daily meetings at various hierarchical levels reinforce supervision as an integral part of the daily routine, allowing for task assignments, issue resolution, and priority setting.

To further enhance supervisory skills, the Department of Human Resources (HR) regularly offers targeted training for PRC supervisors. In 2022, topics included Making Reasonable Accommodations, Reasonable Suspicion, Which is it? Workplace Violence, EEO or a Managerial Issue? In 2023, subjects encompassed Progressive Discipline, Introduction to the WC Employee Assistance Program, How to have Difficult Conversations, and Managing Remote Workers. Mandatory online Harassment and Discrimination Training, specifically tailored for supervisors, underscores the commitment to communicating expectations.

PRC’s intranet serves as a valuable resource, offering quick access to its Administrative Manual and other pertinent information. This platform supports supervisors in their day-to-day responsibilities, ensuring they have the tools and information necessary for effective leadership.