Chapter 7 Directing

Q1. What do you mean by directing?

Ans. Directing function of management is concerned with instructing, guiding, inspiring, coaching,
leading and motivating the employees in the organization so that their efforts result in achievement of
organization objectives.

"Directing is telling people what to do and seeing that they do it to the best of their ability."

-Ernest Dale.

Q2. What are the features/ characteristics and importance of directing?

Ans. Features/characteristics of directing function

a. Directing initiates’ action.

Other functions prepare a base or setting for action, i.e., how action has to be carried on, the directing
initiates action in the organization.

By giving directions or instructions the managers get the work started in the organization.

Thus, directing is an executive function.

b. Directing is a continuous function.

Directing is a continuous process. A manger cannot just rest after issuing orders and instructions.

He has to continuously guide, supervise and motivate his subordinates.

He must continuously take steps to make sure that orders and instructions are carried out properly.

c. Directing takes place at every level of management.

Directing is a pervasive function as it is performed by managers at all levels and in all locations.

The directing take place wherever superior- subordinate relations exists.

Every manager has to supervise, guide, motivate and communicate with his subordinate to get things
done.

d. Directing flows from top to bottom.

Directing is first initiated at top level and flows to the bottom through organization hierarchy.

Every manager can direct his immediate subordinate and take directions from his immediate boss.

Directing starts from top level and flows to lower level.

e. Directing is a Performance oriented

Directing is a performance-oriented function. The main motive of directing is bringing efficiency in

performance.

Directing function directs the performance of individuals towards the achievement of

organizational goals.

Q3. Explain the Important of directing function.

Ans. The importance of directing function is as:

1. To initiate action:

The employees in the organization start working only when they get instructions and directions from
their superiors.

In the directing function the superiors direct the actions of employees towards the predetermined goals
of the organization.

For example, if a supervisor guides his subordinates and clarify their doubts while performing a task, it
will help the worker to achieve work targets given to him.

2. To integrate employee’s efforts.

Directing integrates employee’s efforts in the organization in such a way that every individual effort
contributes to the organizational performance.

Thus, it ensures that the individuals work for organizational goals,

For example, a manager with good leadership abilities will be in a position to convince the employees
working under him that individual efforts and team effort will lead to achievement of organizational
goals.

3. Means of motivation/Guides employees

Directing function does not mean giving orders only but through directions and instructions the
superiors try to motivate the employees to perform to their best ability.

Directing guides employees to fully realize their potential and capabilities by motivating and providing
effective leadership.

A good leader can always identify the potential of his employees and motivate them to extract work up
to their full potential.

4.To facilitates introduction of needed changes in the organization.

Generally, people have a tendency to resist changes in the organization.

Effective directing through motivation, communication and leadership helps to reduce such resistance
and develop required cooperation in introducing changes in the organization.
For example, if a manager wants to introduce new system of accounting, there may be initial resistance
from accounting staff. But, if manager explains the purpose, provides training and motivates with
additional rewards, the employees may accept change and cooperate with manager

5.to bring stability and balance in the organization

Effective directing helps to bring stability and balance in the organization

it fosters cooperation and commitment among the people

It helps to achieve balance among various groups, activities and the departments.

Q4. Explain the elements of directing briefly

1. Supervision
2. Communication
3. Motivation
4. Leadership

Q 5. Explain the meaning and importance of supervision.

Ans. Meaning

 The supervision means instructing, guiding, monitoring and observing the employees while they
are performing jobs in the organization.
 It is the process of guiding the efforts of employees and other resources to accomplish the
desired objectives. It means over seeing what is being done by subordinates and giving
instruction to ensure optimum utilization of resources and achievement of work targets.
 It is a managerial position in the organization hierarchy at the operative level i.e., immediately
above the worker.