'I may have the title of Commercial Lines manager, but I don't have the responsibility!' I've heard this lament more than once in the past 10 years. To the dismay of managers, agency principals too often keep their hands in day-to-day concerns. The most common reason is that managers are not keeping them informed of agency operations.
MEET-MEET-MEET!
By now you must be sick of hearing me tell agencies to meet weekly, but it's vital. Meet at the same time each week. Hold the meeting even if there are only two people in attendance so you don't get out of the habit. If agency principals are apprised of the agency's day-to-day operations, they'll have more peace of mind and will feel less tempted to get involved in management matters.
Employees and managers should meet on an individual or group basis to discuss company issues, such as how the agency is doing, employee concerns, and the marketing plan.
FAIR WARNING!
Supervisors and managers need to warn agency principals of employee concerns and agency problems. By the same token, principals need to warn managers of upcoming changes in the agency. When warning agency principals, discuss the problem and all surrounding issues. Warn them in advance of a strike.
Make sure agency principals approve of the way you want to handle a problem. Always ask them if they have any other solutions.