Chapter 1 - Managers and You in the Workplace Flashcards
Who is a manager?
A manager is someone who coordinates and oversees the work of other people so that organizational goals can be accomplished.
How can managers be classified?
Managers can be classified as first-line, middle, or top, based on their level of responsibility and the scope of their work.
What do first-line managers do?
First-line managers manage the work of non-managerial employees.
What are the responsibilities of middle managers?
Middle managers manage the work of first-line managers.
What is the role of top managers?
Top managers are responsible for making organization-wide decisions and establishing plans and goals that affect the entire organization.
Where do managers typically work?
Managers work within organizations, which are deliberate arrangements of people to accomplish specific purposes.
What are the three common characteristics of organizations?
The three characteristics are a distinct purpose, deliberate structure, and people.
Why are managers important?
Managers are critical to getting things done, and their skills and abilities are essential for organizational success.
What is management?
Management involves coordinating and overseeing the work activities of others so that their activities are completed efficiently and effectively.
What are efficiency and effectiveness?
- Efficiency: Doing things right – getting the most output from the least amount of input.
- Effectiveness: Doing the right things – attaining organizational goals.
How do efficiency and effectiveness differ?
- Efficiency is about means (how things are done).
- Effectiveness is about ends (achieving organizational goals).
What are the four management functions?
- Planning: Defining goals, establishing strategies, and developing plans.
- Organizing: Arranging and structuring work to accomplish goals.
- Leading: Working with and through people to accomplish goals.
- Controlling: Monitoring, comparing, and correcting work.
What is the goal of management functions?
To achieve the organization’s stated purposes effectively and efficiently.
What are Mintzberg’s Managerial Roles?
Mintzberg identified 10 roles grouped into interpersonal, informational, and decisional categories.
What are the three categories of Mintzberg’s roles?
- Interpersonal
- Informational
- Decisional
What are the interpersonal roles in Mintzberg’s Managerial Roles?
- Figurehead: Performing ceremonial duties and representing the organization officially.
- Leader: Guiding and motivating team members to achieve organizational goals.
- Liaison: Building and maintaining relationships with external stakeholders for effective communication and collaboration.
What are the informational roles in Mintzberg’s Managerial Roles?
- Monitor: Gathering and analyzing information to stay informed about industry trends and performance.
- Disseminator: Sharing relevant information with team members to ensure alignment with organizational objectives.
- Spokesperson: Representing the organization to external parties and effectively communicating its mission and achievements.
What are the decisional roles in Mintzberg’s Managerial Roles?
- Entrepreneur: Initiating change and innovation to improve performance.
- Disturbance Handler: Addressing crises and managing conflicts effectively.
- Resource Allocator: Deciding how to best utilize organizational resources, including time, budget, and personnel.
- Negotiator: Representing the organization’s interests in discussions with external partners or during internal negotiations.
Why is understanding Mintzberg’s roles helpful for managers?
It helps managers navigate their responsibilities more effectively, ensuring they can lead their teams while aligning with organizational objectives.
What are the three main types of management skills?
- Technical Skills: Knowledge and proficiency in a specific field.
- Human Skills: The ability to work well with other people.
- Conceptual Skills: The ability to think and conceptualize about abstract and complex situations concerning the organization.
What are some important managerial skills highlighted in Exhibit 1-7?
- Managing human capital
- Structuring work and getting things done
- Managing decision-making processes
- Inspiring commitment
- Facilitating the psychological and social contexts of work
- Managing strategy and innovation
- Managing change
- Using purposeful networking
- Managing logistics and technology
What are some key changes facing managers according to Exhibit 1-8?
- Changing Technology (Digitization)
- Increased Competitiveness
- Changing Security Threats
- Impact of Social Media
- Flexible Work Arrangements
- Empowered Employees
- Sustainability
- Globalization
- Increased Accountability
Why is managing customer relationships important for all managers and employees?
Without customers, most organizations would cease to exist. Consistent, high-quality customer service is essential.
What must managers do in relation to new technology?
- Get employees on board with new technology.
- Oversee the social interactions and challenges involved in using collaborative technologies.
