Describe the three principal managerial roles identified by Henry Mintzberg and give examples of each?
How important is competence in the core managerial skills for the different types of managers?
http://www.lmcuk.com/management-tool/mintzberg-s-ten-management-roles
To describe the three principal managerial roles identified by Henry Mintzberg, we need to understand that Mintzberg categorized managerial activities into three main roles: interpersonal roles, informational roles, and decisional roles.
1. Interpersonal Roles: These roles involve interactions with people both within and outside an organization. The three interpersonal roles identified by Mintzberg are:
a) Figurehead: In this role, managers represent their organization and perform ceremonial duties. For example, a CEO attending a company's annual gala event or a manager representing the company at a conference.
b) Leader: Managers act as leaders by directing, guiding, and motivating their team members. They provide support and guidance, resolving conflicts, and promoting teamwork.
c) Liaison: Managers act as a liaison by maintaining relationships with stakeholders, external parties, and other departments within the organization. For example, a manager may communicate with suppliers, government agencies, or sales departments in the company.
2. Informational Roles: These roles involve collecting, analyzing, and disseminating information within an organization. The three informational roles identified by Mintzberg are:
a) Monitor: Managers monitor and gather relevant information about both internal and external factors that may impact their organization. They collect data from various sources like reports, meetings, or market research.
b) Disseminator: Managers act as a disseminator by sharing information with individuals or teams within their organization. They distribute important knowledge, reports, or updates to ensure everyone is well-informed.
c) Spokesperson: Managers act as a spokesperson by representing their organization and conveying information to the external world. They may address the media, participate in public speaking events, or communicate with shareholders.
3. Decisional Roles: These roles involve making choices, setting objectives, and allocating resources within an organization. The four decisional roles identified by Mintzberg are:
a) Entrepreneur: Managers act as entrepreneurs by identifying opportunities, initiating and managing change, and encouraging innovation within their organization.
b) Disturbance handler: Managers handle conflicts, problems, and crises that may arise within their organization. They mediate disputes, make tough decisions, and find solutions to restore stability.
c) Resource allocator: Managers allocate resources effectively by making decisions about budgeting, staffing, and assigning tasks. They ensure that resources are utilized optimally and priorities are set.
d) Negotiator: Managers act as negotiators by representing their organization in negotiations with internal or external parties. They manage conflicts of interest, bargaining and reaching agreements that align with the organization's objectives.
Now, addressing the importance of competence in the core managerial skills for different types of managers:
Competence in core managerial skills is crucial for managers at all levels and in all types of organizations. These core skills include communication, leadership, decision-making, problem-solving, and strategic thinking.
For example, a front-line manager needs strong communication skills to effectively relay information to their subordinates and guide them in their day-to-day tasks. A middle manager requires decision-making skills to make informed choices regarding resource allocation, team management, and problem-solving. A top-level executive needs strategic thinking skills to formulate long-term plans, set organizational goals, and make critical decisions that shape the overall direction of the company.
The level of competence needed may vary based on the managerial position and the complexity of the role. Nevertheless, having a strong foundation in these core managerial skills is essential for managers to effectively lead their teams, manage resources, and achieve organizational objectives.