The appropriateness of management styles

Question 1

Time

Answer 1

The amount of time a manager has to make a business decision or carry out a task can vary from a few seconds to several months. A manager may have very limited time in emergency situations or extended periods of time to research a suitable option.
• The autocratic or persuasive management styles allow decisions to be made quickly as managers do not need to discuss or reach a consensus with employees. Work activities or solutions can be implemented quickly through one way instructions.
• By contrast, extended periods of time available for a task allow the use of management styles, such as consultative, participative or laissez-faire, which have two way communication and shared decision-making.

Question 2

Experience of employees

Answer 2

The experience of employees in a business can range from untrained and inexperienced to highly skilled experts.
• Inexperienced employees could find it difficult to contribute to business decisions as they may lack the relevant knowledge or experience. In those situations, managers should use management styles with one way communication and centralised decision-making, such as the autocratic or persuasive styles.
• On the other hand, managers should utilise the opinions and knowledge of highly experienced employees to produce better quality business decisions and outcomes. A business environment with experienced and knowledgeable employees may prompt managers to adopt management styles with two way communication and shared decision-making

Question 3

nature of task

Answer 3

The nature of tasks in a business can range from simple and straightforward duties to incredibly complex work assignments.
• One way communication between managers and employees is sufficient for businesses that require simpler tasks to be completed.
• However, two way communication is useful for the completion of complex tasks as ideas and solutions may be enhanced by discussions between managers and employees.
• Complex tasks for a manager also includes any issues that directly involve employees such as the resolution of workplace conflicts or improving staff morale.
• Accordingly, more difficult tasks can benefit from shared decision making between managers and employees. Managers may also allow employees to make decisions when the task is complex because it requires their specialised knowledge and skills

Question 4

Manager preference

Answer 4

Each manager has a personal preference for their own management styles. Some managers have a higher desire of control over a business situation while other managers are comfortable with assuming lower levels of control.
• A manager with a higher desire for control would prefer centralised decision making and one way communication to complete work activities quickly with minimal disruption from employees.
• Conversely, a manager with a lower desire for control would benefit from management styles with employees playing a part in the decision making process.