leading people to achieve the team’s,

Directing

The third management function is directing—providing focus and direction to others and motivating them to achieve organizational goals.

Directing is the process of instructing, guiding, coaching, motivating, and leading people to achieve the team’s, as well as the organization’s, goals and objectives. Managers must deal with individuals from diverse backgrounds and expectations. So, it is important that they possess solid directing skills to manage their team members effectively in order to achieve their objectives.

Some characteristics of directing are:

• It initiates action.
• It takes place at every level of management in the organization.
• It is a continuous process throughout the life of an organization.
• It is related to the human factors of engaging individuals to perform.

Problem Solving

Everybody encounters problems daily that require solutions. The ability to solve problems effectively and efficiently is a valuable personal and professional skill. Developing effective problem-solving skills allows you to recognize problems when they occur, conduct analysis of the problems, assess the severity of the problems, and evaluate a variety of possible solutions for increased efficiency and productivity.

Problem-solving methodologies are processes through which a situation or issue may be analyzed and solutions implemented. Different methodologies may be optimized for specific applications. Employers seek people who can effectively identify and ask significant questions that clarify and lead to better solutions in a variety of work conditions. They require managers who can use multiple techniques to solve problems and can articulate their reasons for choosing a course of action or solution.

In order to solve problems, frontline supervisors must first be able to identify the causes of those problems. While the causes may seem obvious at first, further analysis typically reveals that the real causes are not so easily identified. For example, repeatedly being late to work is a symptom exhibited by an employee who has a problem. However, determining the cause of the underlying problem can be challenging unless you have the appropriate tools to assist you.

Here are some keys to problem solving: Decision-making and problem-solving. Decision-making and problem-solving. (n.d.) Cuesta College.

• Think aloud – Problem solving is a cognitive, mental process. Thinking aloud or talking yourself through the steps of problem solving is useful. Hearing yourself think can facilitate the process.
• Allow time for ideas to “gel” or consolidate – If time permits, give yourself time for solutions to develop. Gaining distance from a problem can allow you to clear your mind and get a new perspective.

Talk about the problem