Questionsa) Discuss the managers function with reference to Mintzbergs modelb) Identify areas from the above discsuuion where you could improve your own management performancec) Discuss staff development within your company / divisionAssignment 1Part (a)Model: MintzbergDescriptionMintzberg shows that a manager's job in reality is quite different from what it is perceived to be. Managers have to perform a wide variety of roles that can be grouped into three areas: interpersonal, informational and decisional.Mintzberg further expands this model by defining typical activities under each of the above areas.Role ActivityInterpersonal FigureheadLeaderLiaisonInformational MonitorDisseminatorSpokespersonDecisional EntrepreneurDisturbance handlerResource allocationNegotiatorIt is easy for me to relate to the Mintzberg model as my typical day starts very much like that of Eric Dancer, in fact, sometimes the term "chaos" would be a more accurate description.I am technically responsible for the infrastructure of a company that provides after-hours payment points and online mobile phone top-up facilities in the United Kingdom. The environment consists of approximately 20 Compaq file servers that process online (real time) transactions, and batch (offline) transactions. I provide technical support and guidance to the three environments that comprise the IT department, namely Operations, Network and Server. My daily schedule can quite easily be likened to that of the Mintzberg manager.FigureheadThis role is very pertinent since I work for a third party company. I represent my company to my client and I would even go so far as to say that to my client I am my company.LeaderPart of my responsibility is planning and providing for future growth in my area of responsibility. This entails providing direction and advice to my subordinates.LiaisonI maintain a network of relationships with my suppliers and with companies providing specialist technical assistance for some of the products that are used in my environment.MonitorThis involves a number of areas of responsibility. I have to monitor my client's needs, "moods" and requirements. Often rumours or gossip are good indicators as to what is going on in the organisation.Monitoring client attitude also allows me to determine how well I am doing my job, and the perception that the client has of me. I cannot provide a good service if I am not respected by my client.DisseminatorThe information mentioned above is important for the "bigger picture", and when filtered back to my immediate manager, enables my company to ensure that they are providing for the client's needs, immediate and future. Very often a rumour circulating amongst the staff can provide valuable leads to future opportunities.SpokespersonI am responsible for feedback to my client. I have to provide reports on capacity planning, service levels and general requirements. I also have to represent my client's needs to my own company.EntrepreneurI fulfil this...
