Management Functions

Managers perform four managerial functions:

Planning involves determining organizational goals and a means for achieving them. Planning is essential to organizations and can result in a more motivated workforce. Managers ask, "What do we want to accomplish?"

Organizing is deciding where decisions will be made, who will do what jobs and tasks, and who will work for whom in the company. Managers ask, "What resources are needed to get the job done?"

Leading involves inspiring and motivating workers to work hard to achieve organizational goals. Managers ask, "How do we motivate and inspire employees?"

Controlling is monitoring progress toward goal achievement and taking corrective action when progress isn't being made. Managers set standards to achieve goals, measure performance against those standards, and then take action if needed. Managers ask, "How are we performing against our goals?"

Managers use these four functions whether they are the CEOs of large companies, department managers at retail stores, or managers of small restaurants. Studies indicate that managers who perform these management functions well are more successful, more likely to receive promotions, and more likely to generate profits for their companies.

In the context of management functions, identify a true statement about controlling.

It involves taking corrective action when progress is not being made.

It encourages employees to openly express their thoughts and feelings.

It encourages people to think of better ways to do their jobs.

It is the ability to respond to problems that require immediate action.