Explain the various roles of manager.

22/June/2025 00:40 Share:

Roles of a Manager

A manager plays multiple roles within an organization. These roles are essential for maintaining structure, ensuring productivity, making decisions, and guiding teams toward the achievement of organizational goals.

Henry Mintzberg, a renowned management expert, categorized managerial roles into three broad groups, each containing specific sub-roles:

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1. Interpersonal Roles

These involve interaction with people inside and outside the organization.

a) Figurehead

Represents the organization in ceremonial and official functions.

Example: Attending meetings, signing legal documents, inaugurating events.

b) Leader

Motivates, directs, and influences subordinates.

Example: Assigning tasks, evaluating performance, and resolving conflicts.

c) Liaison

Maintains relationships with external stakeholders and other departments.

Example: Meeting clients, networking with suppliers, communicating with partners.

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2. Informational Roles

These involve processing, sharing, and analyzing information.

a) Monitor

Gathers and assesses internal and external information relevant to the organization.

Example: Reading reports, market analysis, keeping track of competition.

b) Disseminator

Shares useful information with team members and other units.

Example: Explaining company policies, distributing reports.

c) Spokesperson

Represents the organization and communicates information to outsiders.

Example: Speaking at press conferences, addressing investors.

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3. Decisional Roles

These involve making choices and solving problems.

a) Entrepreneur

Initiates and manages change and innovation.

Example: Launching new projects, introducing new products.

b) Disturbance Handler

Manages crises or unexpected problems.

Example: Handling employee strikes, resolving customer complaints.

c) Resource Allocator

Decides how resources are distributed across activities.

Example: Approving budgets, assigning staff to projects.

d) Negotiator

Represents the organization in important negotiations.

Example: Finalizing vendor contracts, settling wage agreements.

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Conclusion

A manager’s role is multi-dimensional and requires the ability to shift between various responsibilities. Whether it's leading people, processing information, or making critical decisions, a good manager must adapt and perform all roles effectively to ensure the success and smooth functioning of the organization. Understanding these roles helps managers become more efficient, strategic, and influential leaders.