DIRECTING
DIRECTING
Directing refers to the process of instructing, guiding, counselling, motivating and leading people in the organisation to achieve its
objective.
Directing not only involves orders and instructions by a superior to the subordinates, but includes many elements like supervision,
motivation, leadership and communication. It is one of the key managerial functions performed by every manager. Directing is a
managerial process which takes place throughout the life of an organisation.
FEATURE OF DIRECTING
The main characteristics of directing are as follows:
1. Directing Initiates Action: Directing is a key managerial function which makes things happen. Other functions of management
(planning, organising, staffing and controlling) just prepare a setting for action, but directing function initiates action in the
organisation.
2. Directing takes place at every level of management: Direction is a pervasive function as it is performed by all managers at all
levels. The directing takes place wherever superior-
subordinate relations exist.
3. Directing is a Continuous Process: Directing is an on-going function of management.
• Manager has to constantly issue directions, supervise and review the work of his subordinates, guide them and also motivate
them from time to time
. It takes place throughout the life of the organisation irrespective of people occupying managerial positions.
• There may be change in managers, but the directing process continues as organisational activities cannot continue further
without direction.
4. Directing Flows from Top to Bottom: Directing is first initiated at top level and flows to the bottom through organisational
hierarchy. Directing is the function of a superior, i.e. a superior has to motivate, guide, supervise and issue instructions to his
subordinates and not
vice-versa.
PRINCIPLES OF DIRECTING
1• Maximum Individual Contribution: Managers should encourage and empower each employee to contribute their maximum
potential to the organization. This involves providing opportunities for growth, development, and recognition.
2. Harmony of Objectives: It's crucial to align individual goals with organizational objectives. This ensures that everyone is
working towards the same goals, fostering a sense of unity and purpose.
3. Unity of Command: Each employee should report to only one supervisor to avoid confusion and conflicting instructions. This
principle ensures a clear chain of command and efficient delegation of authority.
4. Appropriate Direction Techniques: Managers should use effective communication, supervision, and motivation techniques to
guide and influence their team members. This may involve adapting to different personalities and situations.
5. Effective Communication: Clear, concise, and timely communication is essential for directing employees effectively. This
includes both verbal and written communication, as well as active listening
6• supervision:
The term 'Supervision' is made up of two words: Super and Vision. Super means over and above and Vision means seeing. So,
supervision means overseeing employees at work. It is the function of keeping a watch on the working and performance of the
employees.
Supervision refers to instructing, guiding and observing the subordinates at work to ensure that they are working as per plans and
to help them in solving their work problems.
7 • motivation:
Motivation refers to a process of stimulating and inspiring people at work to accomplish desired goals. It is an inner
psychological force, which activates and compels the person to behave in a desired manner.
Definitions of Motivation
• motivation is a process which begins with a physiological or psychological need or deficiency which triggers behaviour or a
drive that is aimed at a goal or incentive.
Reason for Motivation
Every manager has a responsibility to get things done by subordinates. To discharge this responsibility, manager has to find out:
(i) What makes people to do things?
(ii) What makes people to behave the way they do?
.
8• LEADERSHIP:
Leadership is the process of influencing the behaviour of people at work towards achievement of organisational goals.
·
Leadership indicates the ability of an individual to maintain good interpersonal relations with followers and motivate them to
contribute for achieving organisational objectives.
• An individual, who possess attributes of leadership is known as 'Leader'.
The leader plays a key role in the success of an organisation.
Features of Leadership
The various features of leadership are as follows:
1. Leadership indicates ability of an individual to influence others.
2. It aims to bring change in the behaviour of others.
3. It indicates interpersonal relations between leader and follo exercised to achieve common goals of the organisation.
Leadership helps in influencing
the behaviour of people towards achieving organisational goals.
ELEMENTS OF DIRECTING
