I have looked at the recent email re lab manager and have a few
additional
comments.

1.    In a small lab the lab manager often has to also participate in
the work
being carried out. This demostrates that they are a supervisor who is
willing
to participate when needed.
2.    The lab manager should be able to take over any tasks that are
performed
in his/her lab. In some situations an individual with little or no
training in
histology may be placed in charge of a histopathology lab. Can't say
that I
agree with this as it is bound to cause some friction and resentment
along the
way.
3.   It is difficult being friends with the people you supervise. The
important
things are mutual respect and equitable treatment of all employees.
4.    In some cases, because of lack of respect or appreciation for the
importance of the job by upper administration, some managers may not
respect
themselves and their job to the extent that they should. Self respect
and
appreciation of the importance of histotechnology is a critical factor
in team
work. I also feel that upper administration sometimes needs to be
educated
about what histotechnology is an what it accomplishes (apart from the
bottom
line).
In some instances the histotechs being supervised may not appreciate the
amount
of paperwork and regulations that are a necessary part of the managers
job or
the limits to their powers. This is relatively easily remedied by
getting each
person to help at least once with some managerial task. It is true this
takes
time but it may circumvent friction in the future.
Managers, be proud of the job you do and give and get respect for this
honorable profession.
Barry