Managers are not systematic planners, normally have no routine duties and prefer verbal communication rather than specific meetings. So what good mangers actually do?
In most business organizations, managers are responsible for performing the following five functions of management:
1. Setting objectives and PLANNING resources
Successful managers are forward-thinkers. Senior leadership establishes guiding principles, translated into actionable goals for team leaders. Effective planning is crucial, setting clear objectives and allocating resources accordingly. Launching a new marketing campaign demands meticulous planning and resource allocation. This involves assessing the current state and envisioning the future. Once the direction is set, objectives are defined, and action plans formulated. Financial planning plays a key role, like an oil company aiming to expand across its value chain. Their objectives might include upgrading equipment, streamlining operations, modernizing refineries, and strengthening financial partnerships.
2. ORGANIZING resources to meet the objectives
This goes beyond mere instruction. Recruiting the right people and empowering them through delegation fosters ownership and accountability. Dividing tasks effectively and delegating to suitable individuals is key. Senior leaders ensure a clear division of labor, enabling each department to contribute towards shared goals. This function focuses on structuring and organizing resources to achieve planned objectives. Management must identify the most cost-effective way to accomplish critical tasks.
3. DIRECTING employees towards the goal and motivating staff
This involves leading, directing, and supervising employees to ensure organizational objectives are met. It is about decision-making, clear communication, and continuous guidance. The importance of employee development and motivation is widely recognized, leading to increased engagement and achievement of organizational goals. This function includes supervision, but also aims to motivate employees towards achieving planned objectives.
4. COORDINATING activities to move all parts in the same direction
Bringing different parts of the business together is crucial, especially as multinational operations expand. Ensuring consistency and coordination becomes vital. The goals of each branch, division, and region must be aligned to create a unified sense of purpose. Practically, this avoids situations where departments duplicate efforts by researching the same product. Coordination ensures all departments work together towards achieving common goals, keeping employees motivated and focused on a shared vision.
5. CONTROLLING and MEASURING performance against targets
Management by objectives sets targets for teams, divisions, and individuals. Appraising performance against these targets and taking corrective action for underperformance is essential. Similarly, providing positive feedback for sustained success is equally important. This final function involves monitoring progress against the plan. Are things on track and meeting quality standards? If not, adjustments must be made. Setting clear productivity goals helps with performance measurement.
In addition to these five functions of management, business managers need to understand the people who work for them, set a good example by being a role model, treat subordinates ethically, delegate tasks responsibly and communicate effectively.
