Principles and Techniques of Directing

-

Principles of Directing

  • Maximum Individual Contribution:
    • Policies should motivate employees to contribute their best towards organizational goals.
  • Harmony of Objectives:
    • Align organizational goals with individual goals to avoid conflicts and ensure cooperation.
  • Unity of Command:
    • Subordinates should receive orders from only one superior to prevent confusion and conflicts.
  • Appropriate Direction Technique:
    • Use suitable techniques for supervision, leadership, communication, and motivation based on situational factors.
  • Managerial Communication:
    • Ensure clear and effective communication so that instructions are understood as intended.
  • Use of Informal Organization:
    • Leverage informal groups within the organization for effective communication and information flow.
  • Leadership:
    • Managers should possess strong leadership skills to influence and guide subordinates.
  • Follow Through:
    • Monitor the implementation of policies and instructions, making adjustments as necessary.

Techniques of Directing

  • Issuing Orders and Instructions:
    • Clear, reasonable, attainable orders in line with organizational goals should be given, preferably face-to-face.
  • Supervision:
    • Regularly monitor and guide subordinates, maintaining direct personal contact to ensure plans are executed properly.
  • Motivating Subordinates:
    • Use monetary and non-monetary incentives to excite and engage employees towards achieving objectives.
  • Providing Leadership:
    • Influence subordinates to work towards the leader's vision, building trust and enthusiasm.
  • Communicating with Subordinates:
    • Transfer facts, ideas, and feelings effectively, ensuring mutual understanding and cooperation.
  • Maintaining Discipline and Rewarding Effective People:
    • Foster an environment of discipline and trust, rewarding effective performance with bonuses, incentives, and other perks.

Summary

Directing is a fundamental management function essential for guiding and leading employees towards achieving organizational goals. It involves clear communication, effective leadership, proper supervision, and motivation. By aligning individual and organizational objectives, maintaining unity of command, and using appropriate direction techniques, managers can ensure efficient and effective performance.