Directing refers to the process of instructing, guiding, counseling, motivating and leading people in the organization to achieve its objectives. It includes communication, supervision, motivation and leadership.

It is a function of management means to lead, motivate and inspire the subordinates and to communicate with them.

 

Characteristics/features

1. Initiates action:

A manager has to perform this function along with planning, organizing, staffing and controlling. While other functions prepare a setting for action, directing initiates action in the organization.

2. Pervasive:

Directing takes place at every level of management wherever superior – subordinate relations exist i.e.  from top executive to supervisor.

3. Continuous process:

It takes place throughout the life of the organization because without direction the organizational activities cannot continue further.

4. Flows from top to bottom:

It means that every manager can direct his immediate subordinate and take instructions from his immediate boss.

Importance 

  1. This function helps to initiate action by people in the organization towards attainment of desired objectives.

2. It integrates employees-efforts in the organization so that every individual effort contributes to the organizational performance.

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

4. It facilitates introduction of needed changes in the organization by reducing resistance from people through motivation, communication and leadership and developing required cooperation in introducing changes in the organization.

5. Effective directing helps to bring stability and balance in the organization by creating cooperation and commitment among the people and creating balance among various groups, activities and the departments.

 

Elements

The activities relating to directing can be classified in four categories known as elements of Direction. These are:

1. Supervision: This element is concerned with overseeing workers at work.

2. Communication: Exchange of ideas and information between two or more persons for a purpose.

3. Leadership: Influencing others' behaviour to achieve some goals.

4. Motivation: Encouraging others to perform better.