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?
To describe the three principal managerial roles identified by Henry Mintzberg, we need to understand that Mintzberg proposed that managerial activities can be classified into ten roles, which are further grouped into three main categories:
1. Interpersonal Roles: These roles involve interacting with people both within and outside the organization. The three roles under this category are:
- Figurehead: This role involves representing the organization officially and symbolically. For example, a CEO attending a company's annual shareholders meeting or a manager attending a client's important event.
- Leader: This role involves leading and managing the team, providing guidance, motivation, and direction to the employees. For example, a team leader conducting regular team meetings and setting goals.
- Liaison: This role involves networking and building relationships with individuals or groups that can influence the organization. For example, a manager meeting with key stakeholders or participating in industry conferences.
2. Informational Roles: These roles involve collecting, disseminating, and acting upon information. The three roles under this category are:
- Monitor: This role involves collecting information from both external and internal sources, closely observing what is happening within and outside the organization. For example, a manager reading industry publications or following market trends.
- Disseminator: This role involves sharing information, both important updates and knowledge, with the team members or relevant individuals within the organization. For example, a manager conducting team meetings to communicate important announcements.
- Spokesperson: This role involves representing the organization and sharing information with external parties. For example, a manager delivering a presentation to customers or investors.
3. Decisional Roles: These roles involve making choices and defining organizational strategies. The four roles under this category are:
- Entrepreneur: This role involves identifying new opportunities, initiating changes within the organization, and taking risks. For example, a manager proposing new product ideas or exploring partnerships.
- Disturbance Handler: This role involves addressing and resolving conflicts and crises within the organization. For example, a manager handling internal disputes or managing unexpected disruptions.
- Resource Allocator: This role involves allocating resources effectively to various projects and departments within the organization. For example, a manager deciding on budget allocations for different business units.
- Negotiator: This role involves negotiating with external parties on behalf of the organization to achieve favorable outcomes. For example, a manager negotiating partnerships or contracts.
Regarding the importance of competence in the core managerial skills for different types of managers, it is essential for managers at all levels. Competence in core managerial skills ensures effective decision-making, communication, leadership, problem-solving, and strategic thinking. However, the specific emphasis on different skills may vary depending on the type of manager and the level within the organization. For example, top-level managers might need stronger strategic thinking and decision-making skills, while middle-level managers might require stronger communication and leadership skills to guide their teams. Nevertheless, overall competence in core managerial skills is crucial for all managers, regardless of the specific type or level.