Elements of Directing

There are four elements of directing:

• Supervision: ‘Supervision’ is made from two words: Super and Vision. Super means over or above, and vision means overseeing employees at work. Instructing, guiding and observing the subordinates at work to ensure that they are working as per the plans and to help them in solving their problem is known as supervision.  It serves as a link between workers and management and helps in improving performance. 
• Motivation: The term ‘Motivation‘ is derived from the Latin word ‘movere’, which means to move. The process of stimulating and inspiring people at work to contribute to the best of their capabilities for the achievement of organisational goals is known as Motivation. Because of Motivation, the efforts of an individual or group are energised.
• Leadership: The process of influencing the behaviour of people towards the achievement of organisational goals is known as Leadership. The ability to maintain good interpersonal relations with the followers and motivate them to contribute to achieving organisational objectives is leadership. 
• Communication: The term ‘communication’ is derived from the Latin word ‘communis’, which means common, which implies common understanding. The process of exchange of ideas, views, facts, feeling, etc., between two or more persons is known as communication. Communication acts as a basis of coordination and helps in the smooth functioning of an enterprise.

Directing is the managerial function of guiding, inspiring, instructing, and harnessing people towards the accomplishment of the desired results. Directing includes issuing orders and instructions that are clear and complete; continuing guidance and supervision to ensure that the assigned tasks are carried out effectively and efficiently; maintaining discipline and rewarding subordinates; inspiring subordinates to work hard for the achievement of goals.