What Is Management

According to Daft (2012), “management is the attainment of organizational goals in an effective and efficient manner through planning, organizing, leading and controlling organizational resource” (p. 6). Management is in place to effectively follow through an organization’s goals by leading and mentoring its employees.

There are four functions of management: planning, organizing, leading and controlling. In order to be an effective manager, each of the functions are pertinent in managing day to day activities. In planning, managers create goals that are aligned with the organization’s mission and vision. Preparation for the future may involve obtaining additional resources to help fulfill the plan. Once the plan is in place, the tasks are organized and distributed to others to accomplish the goal. Each year the company in which I’m employed sets aside three months to plan the budget for the next fiscal year. By successfully planning the budget, there will is a possibility variances will not occur the following year. One of the more important characteristics in management is leading. In order to leading, a person would have to be able to carry out the first two tasks and serve as the voice for the organization or department. An effective leader is able to communicate effectively and motive others to achieve the desired goals. Lastly, controlling is the final function of management. Controlling refers to the ability to focus on the employees ability to meet the goals of the organization. Effective controlling will guide the employee to carefully complete the job while minimizing the mistakes.

Daft, R.L. (2012). Management. Mason, Oh: Southwestern Cengage-Learning.