For example, I am very self-motivated, and hate to see a job poorly done. But I have realized that some employees are more motivated by external rather than internal rewards, and thrive on a sense of competition with others, otherwise they will slacken in their duties. These external rewards must also be varied as employees bring different experiences and needs to their work. Showing sensitivity to an individuals' desire to balance career and family by offering flexible work hours vs. A promotion might be better suited to that employee. Using the prospect of promotion might be more motivational for a younger and more driven employee. Some employees work for a paycheck while some are easily bored and seek challenges...

Others are cynical and try to cheat the system, while the more idealistic employees at a company might be offended by close oversight and feel as though they were being unfairly mistrusted. Administration is a human function, and an administrator must not apply motivational theory in a cookie-cutter fashion.
In your opinion, what are the most important elements of effective supervision?

Flexibility, compassion, and a good 'ear' when listening to people are most important. An administrator must be goal-oriented enough to encourage his or her charges to meet organizational benchmarks, but still use motivational strategies that are individualized.