What should supervisors do to avoid being seen as a disciplinary magician?

To maintain respect and authority while guiding their teams, supervisors should be precise and clear in their actions. This clarity helps to ensure that employees understand the expectations, rules, and the rationale behind any disciplinary actions. When supervisors communicate openly about policies and procedures, it establishes a culture of fairness and transparency, making it less likely for staff to view them as arbitrary figures that wield discipline unpredictably.

Being precise also means that supervisors document their actions and decisions, which adds an element of accountability. This clarity effectively builds trust within the team, as employees can see that disciplinary measures are not random but are instead consistently applied based on well-defined guidelines. Consequently, this clear communication deters the perception of being a "disciplinary magician" who pulls out consequences unexpectedly, thereby fostering a more positive work environment.