Trends

What are some good questions to ask a potential supervisor?

What are some good questions to ask a potential supervisor?

Although there’s no way to know for certain before you start how your relationship with your supervisor will turn out, here are a few questions to ask them so you can get an idea. What would you expect from me as a student, and what could I expect from you as a supervisor?

What are the signs of a bad supervisor?

Good supervision means being responsive to supervisees—giving them the time they need to get information, understand assignments, and especially receive clear feedback. 2. Micromanages. Does your supervisor insist on checking every bit of your work?

What should you do if your supervisor is incompetent?

Effective communication is the key to good management. Giving clear directions and listening to subordinates are crucial to success at work. There is an old saying that people don’t quit their jobs, they quit their bosses. While that may not always be the case, in many instances the supervisor is responsible for making the job a good one.

When to ask a supervisor if they are retiring?

Another potential problem is when supervisors leave or retire. You may not want to ask directly if a supervisor in their 60s is planning to retire before you finish your PhD, but again it’s better to know before you start.

Good supervision means being responsive to supervisees—giving them the time they need to get information, understand assignments, and especially receive clear feedback. 2. Micromanages. Does your supervisor insist on checking every bit of your work?

Do you need an email signature to email your supervisor?

It is generally not necessary to use an email signature when corresponding with your supervisor. However, if your program requires that you do so or if it is your personal preference, you can use the following model: What is important in all cases is that your message is error-free.

Do you have to write a letter to your supervisor?

You will spare your supervisor the time that he or she would need to reply in writing. On your side, asking such questions face-to-face allows you to get more comprehensive answers and to ask follow-up questions if you do not understand something. Give your supervisor enough time to respond.

How to know if your supervisor is untrustworthy?

The very best managers know how to empower subordinates to help them take on responsibility, show some initiative, and grow and learn on the job. 3. Is Untrustworthy. Are you afraid to be open and honest with your supervisor because he or she might use the information against you? Does your supervisor say one thing and do another?