Henry Mintzberg identifies ten key roles performed by managers of firms in his works. One of the first roles is a “figurehead,” which characterizes a manager’s legal, social and ceremonial functions and duties. In this case, a leader symbolizes authority, power, and high status. As a rule, subordinates see a “figurehead” as a source of inspiration and a formal head of management and control. Moreover, according to the professor, a chief can also assume the role of “leader.” Mintzberg claims that a “leader” is crucial in a team performing a wide range of personnel management responsibilities (Mintzberg managerial roles, 2020). This person inspires, trains, encourages, strengthens morale, sets up a positive attitude, and directs the efforts and abilities of colleagues in the right direction.
The next category is the role of “liaison,” when a director quickly and confidently contacts and interacts with people, finds a common language with them, and exchanges important information. As practice shows, “liaisons” direct their communication skills not only to the internal side of an organization but also to the external ones. Hence, this individual is interested in the general state of affairs of an organization, other companies, competitors, and the government. In addition, one should note that the roles described above relate to interpersonal management roles.
The professor also describes in his writings such roles as informational. In Henry Mintzberg’s opinion, “monitor,” “disseminator,” and “spokesperson” parts fit this category (Mintzberg managerial roles, 2020). Thus, a “monitor” is actively interested in new, actual, and relevant information that could be useful for the organization’s future. Such a person is also looking for pertinent details regarding the industry and market with which a company has a connection and already makes certain decisions based on the knowledge gained. Thus, this specialist performs processes related to adaptation and survival in the competition.
On the contrary, a “disseminator,” in this way, uses specific data for distribution to employees. It is essential for a manager to get feedback from colleagues to find out their opinions and ideas about a particular case and phenomenon. In addition, a “spokesperson” interprets and presents information about an organization to external parties in a competent and correct form. This individual should know about the reputation, image, and status of a firm in order to become the best in their field.
Roles within decision-making management should also be highlighted in this paper. Henry Mintzberg highlights such roles as “entrepreneur,” “disturbance handler,” “resource allocator,” and “negotiator” in this situation (Mintzberg managerial roles, 2020). Hence, as an entrepreneur, a manager participates in product growth, transmits information about an organization’s plans, develops and launches projects. An “entrepreneur” also solves problems, generates new ideas, and brings them to life. This is the most responsible role because the company’s financial health directly depends on this person.
Moreover, a “disturbance handler” strives to tame current and potential conflicts and problems. This person ensures the smoothness of work in a team and organizes the proper mood and spirit. Being in another role, a “resource allocator” uses as few resources as possible to get the most benefit. Due to this “position,” a company can be much more successful than others in terms of being incredibly creative and continually improving the efficiency of its resources. Finally, a “negotiator” knows the art of conducting successful conversations and participates in negotiations with team members to achieve positive results. “Negotiations” are an integral part of business, and one successful conversation with potential partners can make a company incredibly successful.
References
Mintzberg managerial roles – The Mintzberg model of management. (2020). Harappa Learning Private Limited. Web.