Directing: 

In layman language, direction means to guide the workers, make them aware of the work, supervise them and to maintain their enthusiasm for the work.

Characteristics of directing: 

1. Goal oriented activity: The purpose of directing or say direction is to guide and motivate the employees to achieve business goals. Thus, direction is a goal oriented activity.

2. Function at every level of management:

• Direction is such a function which is used at every levels of management.
• The top level managers direct departmental officers regarding target, policy and administrative matters.
• Similarly, at the bottom level the supervisors give orders and instructions to the foremen and jobbers.
• The jobbers and foreman direct the workers working under their control.
• Thus, direction moves from top level to the bottom level of management.

3. Continuous process: As long as the organization exists, the function of direction will also continue. Thus, direction is a continuous process.

4. Observation of functions: One of the chief functions of directing is observing whether employees are working as per instructions given to them or not.

5. Wider scope: Directing is not merely guiding and advising to the employees but also making them understand the business decisions and encourage them to work for their implementation.

6. Communication:

• It is highly important to have an effective communication channel for giving orders and guidance to the employees.
• Under ineffective communication process it is difficult to give right direction to the right employee at the right time.

7. Motivation:

• It is necessary to motivate the employees so that they put their best efforts for the organization.
• Higher authorities guide the employees personally. Such guidance solves the problems and doubts of employees, generates faith in them and motivates them to do better work.

8. Flow of direction: Direction always moves from top level to bottom level management. Top level management gives guidance to the managers of middle level management and middle level management directs the workers of bottom level management. Hence, the flow of direction is downwards.

9. Managerial function: Just like other management functions such as planning, organizing, staffing, etc., direction is also a management function.