Directing, in simple words, is instructing the subordinates to follow a certain process to attain a given objective and it is getting the work done through instructions and orders and directing is an important element of management without which success cannot be achieved in the managerial process and it is very essence of management and in fact, it is the sum total of all managerial efforts and it helps in the organization marching towards its defined goal. After planning, determination of objectives, organization, and forecasting, the working force needs briefing about the stated goals which have to be accomplished following the policies, programmes and schedules. Directing is the managerial function of guiding, motivating, leading and supervising the subordinates to accomplish desired objectives. It is an important managerial function that initiates organiser’s action and it is a connecting and activating link with various functions of management and it is a process around which all performance revolves and directing bits of help in mobilising and synthesizing human resources and efforts to accomplish the goals of the organization and directing is the heart of management-in-action and essence of operations. According to Ernest Dale directing is “Directing is telling people what to do and seeing that they do it to the best of their ability and it includes making the assignment, corresponding procedures, seeing that mistakes are corrected, providing on-the-job instructions and of course, issuing orders” and according to another author Newman directing is “ The process of directing is concerned with the way an executive issues instructions to his instructions to his subordinates or otherwise indicates what is to be done”. As a continuous process, directing comprises of:

1. Issuing orders that are clear, complete, and within the capabilities of subordinates to accomplish.
2. Training and instructing subordinates to carry out their assignments in the existing situations.
3. Motivating subordinates to try to meet the expectations of the manager; and
4. Maintaining discipline and rewarding those who perform properly.

NATURE OF DIRECTING

1. Directing Initiates Actions

Directing is a key managerial function and a manager has to perform this function along with planning, organizing, staffing, and controlling while discharging his duties in the organization and while other functions prepare a setting for action, directing initiates action in the organization.

2. Directing takes place at every level of management

Directing is a pervasive function of management and it exists at every level, location and operates throughout an enterprise and every manager, regardless of the number of subordinates, performs this function and he has to give instructions to the instructions, guide them and motivate them for the achievement of certain goals.

3. Directing is a continuous process

Directing is a dynamic and continuing function and it is the essence of management practice and the techniques and methods of directing have to be changed with t eh changing organizational conditions and a manager are expected to guide his subordinates in all the changing environments. Directing’s objectives are to get the work done and to see that the management works ore responsibly and the manager has to make sure that the problem faced by his mens are solved quickly.