What is management really about?
In simpler terms, management is simply the practice of getting things done. So determining the most essential management skills and qualities is like simply asking: What does it take to get things done? Comment to let me know your thoughts.
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Jun 11, 2014
Getting things done, yes, and I believe that managing or BEING a manager is more like being a field general or puppet-master. The "battle" or "show" under your responsibility will be successful if you coordinate the efforts of multiple pieces. Some strings you have to pull more than others and some people you need to direct more, but I've found that letting some people take their own path towards a goal that you've clearly communicated is the best way to accomplish things.
Jun 3, 2014
'Management' is a vast topic covering virtually every walk of life, business and personal, formal and informal, but basically is about responsible, effective oversight and governance ... which can be over other people or only one's self and/or over things and/or over defined operational processes and/or over innovation and/or certainly countless other examples.
Is Management always about getting things done? One exception that comes to mind is Congress passing laws in D.C. under the guise that "... we have to do something ...". On at least some issues, at least some prefer no Congressional action to getting something done (that may be more problematic than the status quo).
The better question to ask is what does it take to get the correct things done (which minimally encompasses strategic and tactical management decision making, prioritizing, staffing, etc.).
Jun 1, 2014
I would modify your answer and say that 'management is simply the practice of getting things done BY OTHER PEOPLE'. It is more 'people management' than 'task management'.
I've got a free ebook on how to become an 'ELITE Leader' which might be of interest - it's on my website. We need to know why we need to get the task done by the people.
If they feel inspired and engaged, if they buy into the purpose and process, they'll do a better job.
And of course we all know how simple and straightforward it is working with people... don't we?!? In my employment law days, I would call it 'the joy of employing people'.
With a bit of thought, we can restore the joy and everyone can be happier at work... How good would that be!
You'll find the free ebook on my website.
May 30, 2014
In addition to the varying responses management is also about effectively managing and allocation the resources that you have to complete the tasks that you are responsible for. Those resources also include effectively managing and engaging with your staff so that you enable to them become competent, effective, motivated and successful in their area. It is also about cultivating a culture that promotes both team and individual success. Resources also include, time, software, paperwork, equipment, products, recruitment etc. Management is by no means one dimensional delegation is part of the equation but by no means all of it.
May 29, 2014
Let's first understand that "Leadership" and "Management" are two different functions. Management is responsible for the day to day execution of established goals and objectives of the organization. They direct employee tasks and ensure best practices and project plans are compiled with in a way that consistently meets or exceeds client and company expectations. They must support a healthy culture as defined by top leadership in a way that sustains high levels of employee engagement. Proactively controlling all things that they can and swiftly influencing circumstances beyond.This will support high standards in quality and productivity alike.
May 29, 2014
If you have employees, then a successful manager will provide a positive work environment so employees can thrive and help your business grow.
As Nigel pointed out, delegation is also a key factor in managing a successful business.
Put the two together and you have a successful management style.
May 29, 2014
Mostly agree. Management is all about responsibility and resolving some, let's say, inconvenient situations which consequently leads to getting things done. Exactly as you said.
At the same time things could be done in different ways. And I wouldn't support such a widespread opinion, that one needs to use all the means he has to achieve the goal. So, management is also about finding the right balance between the task to be resolved and the means to come up to it.
May 29, 2014
Management for me ,is the process of dealing with or controlling things or people in a write sense and in a write manner
May 28, 2014
Hmmmmmm!!!!!, I sort of disagree......management for me is delegation, I have tried a level structure in business and it doesn't work, managers are most effective by delegating, that way one person can manage the actions of many, which leads to productivity, how many and how productive depends on how good a manager you are !!!!
May 28, 2014
Yes, totally agree on that, but to add to it. Getting things done on time and perform probleming solving when things are not on schedule.