Question

Smita had been working as an assistant manager with 'Johnson Enterprises' for the last ten years. She was very popular amongst her colleagues because of her commitment and dedication towards the work. When the manager senior to her retired, all her colleagues thought that now Smita would be promoted. But to everyone's surprise, the vacant post was filled by an outsider, Mrs Rita. Smita felt demoralised and her performance started declining. She would abstain herself often and could not meet her targets

Mrs Rita was a good leader, who would not only instruct her subordinates but would also guide and inspire them. She noticed Smita's behaviour and felt that her performance could be improved. She started involving Smita in decision making-issues related to the organisation and made her a part of a high-level joint-management committee. Smita was now punctual in office and her performance started improving.

1) Identify the function of management being performed by Rita.

2) Name the elements of the above function of management which helped Rita to improve Smita's behaviour

3) State any three features of the element identified in (ii) above

Answer 1

1) Rita has performed the directing function of management.

2) Smita's behaviour has been improved through motivation.

3) Features of motivation:

a. Motivation is an internal feeling which influences an individual’s psychology such that he is induced to perform better. For instance, the desire for the higher salary, respect and recognition.

b. Motivation induces employees to work towards the desired goals and objectives. In other words, it implies encouraging workers to work to the best of their capabilities towards the common goals and objectives of the organisation.

c. Motivation can be both positive and negative. Positive motivation can be in the form of increment, bonus, rewards, incentives or promotions. In contrast, negative motivation can be in the form of warnings or demotions.