What is management, and how does it differ from your previous job? This is probably one of the main things that occupy your mind as you establish yourself in your new role. According to some people, "leaders do the right thing, and managers do things right." As a new or prospective manager, how would you define management? You may also find it helpful to ask fellow managers, or your mentors, for their definitions of management.

There are a number of different management responsibilities. These duties however, can be categorized as five core management functions as follows:

planning – setting objectives for the department

organizing – identifying how to structure the department

leading – setting a clear direction for the team

controlling – developing new procedures

coordinating – understanding how the department fits into the broader picture

All these functions are equally important. It may be clear to you that managers need to lead and control. But, with their responsibilities for the work of others, it is equally important that they can plan, organize, and coordinate. In the following discussion, Louise and Geoff highlight the five core management functions.

Geoff was promoted to the position of sales manager at the end of last month. His senior manager, Louise, has given him a couple of weeks to settle in, and today they are meeting to discuss what has to be done.

planning

Louise – Well, Geoff, you seem to have settled into the new job. But I thought that today would give us an opportunity to discuss what needs to be done over the next few months.

Geoff – Thanks. I know that I'm going to enjoy this job, but it would certainly be helpful if we could discuss some of the things that I should be doing.

organizing

Louise – Well, your first priority has to be to identify clear objectives for the team. You have a copy of the budgeted sales figures, and I'd like you to think about the resources that you need to ensure that we meet these targets.

Geoff – I've been looking at the figures, and think that we should split the team into two smaller groups. One group could concentrate on key accounts, and the other group could focus on generating business. I'd also like to be able to provide some more administration support for the second group.

leading

Louise – They sound like good ideas, but remember that people can be upset by change, so you must give these new groups clear direction.

controlling

Geoff – I was also hoping to set up some new customer contact logs to help us to improve our monitoring.

coordinating

Louise – I'm pleased that you understand what needs to be done. I'm sure that you will make this a success. By the way, I'd like you to come to the regional sales meetings each month. You can then see how your work fits in with the work being done elsewhere in the corporation.

Any experienced manager will tell you that before you can manage others well, you need to understand what is expected of you. Understanding what your five key responsibilities are will help you to become a more effective manager.