Different Types of Managers and Management Styles in an Organization

Introduction

Are you interested in the various types of managerial roles that exist in organizations as well as the different management styles that each employs? 

Are you curious about how you can identify which approach is most suitable in various situations? Have you ever thought about what it takes to be a potent manager or how different management styles impact the culture of an organization?

There are different types of managers and management styles that they use to motivate and lead their teams. Managers play a crucial role in an organization. They can be responsible for diverse activities such as creating and implementing strategies, and making sure that projects are completed on time. Understanding different types of management styles is essential to being a potent manager. 

In this blog, you will gain a deeper understanding of different types of managers and management styles, the role of a manager in an organization, organizational structures, and skills for effective management. This blog will help you understand the perspectives of different managers with different management styles and the practical knowledge you need to apply these in your own workplace.

Role of a Manager in an Organization

The job of a manager is a very difficult one. Managers have to manage their team members to ensure the smooth running of the work. The ability of a manager to utilize resources effectively for achieving business goals determines the success of an organization. A manager is someone who oversees the actions of others in an organization. Different levels of management are called by different names, and the managers perform their work according to their management level. 

Functional managers are responsible for a specific area or function of the organization, such as finance, marketing, or human resources. Plant heads are in charge of the operations and production processes of a specific plant or facility, while project managers oversee the planning and execution of specific projects within the organization.

Organizational Management Structures

Organizational management structure is a system that portrays how certain activities, such as rules, roles, and responsibilities, are performed in a certain order to achieve the organization’s goals. These structures help optimize efficiency and communication by defining who is accountable for certain decisions.

There are different types of organizational management structures, such as hierarchical, flat, and matrix structures, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the right structure depends on the organization’s size, culture, and goals. Moreover, organizational management structure can also impact the culture and overall success of a company. A well-designed structure can lead to increased employee satisfaction and productivity, while a poorly designed one can lead to confusion and inefficiency.  

Horizontal Organizational Structure

Horizontal organizational structures are flat management structures that work best for companies with fewer employees. In a horizontal organizational structure, communication channels are shorter and decision-making processes are quicker, which allows for a more agile response to changes in the market. However, this type of structure may not be suitable for larger companies or those with complex operations that require a more hierarchical approach. 

Vertical Organizational Structure

Vertical organizational structures are categorized in vertical or top-down management structures. This structure has multiple levels of management with clearly defined leadership, roles, and responsibilities at each level. It provides clarity and hierarchy in decision making for businesses that have more complex demands. This hierarchical structure ensures that decisions are made efficiently and effectively, with each level of management responsible for their own area of expertise and accountable to those above them. However, it can also lead to communication barriers and a lack of flexibility in decision-making.

Also Read: The Evolution of Management: Lessons From the Past for Better Future

What Are the Different Types of Managers?

Managers are generally of four types, regardless of the organizational structure. They are top-level managers, mid-level managers, first-line managers, and team leaders. Furthermore, this hierarchical structure ensures that each level of management can focus on their specific tasks and responsibilities, leading to greater efficiency and productivity. However, it is important for managers at all levels to maintain open lines of communication and collaboration to ensure the success of the business as a whole.

Top-Level Managers

Top level managers are high ranking executives who manage an organization at the highest levels of the organization’s management hierarchy. They are responsible for making key decisions that affect the company’s operations and financial performance. Setting the direction and strategies of the organization is one of the key roles of top level managers. Lower level managers work under these managers. They help sustain a company’s growth by making major business decisions. They are also responsible for maintaining relationships with their stakeholders and other companies.

Top level management executives are:

• President
• Board of Directors Member
• Vice President
• Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
• Chief Operating Officer (COO)
• Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
• Chief Marketing Officer (CMO)
• Chief Compliance Officer (CCO)

Middle Managers

Middle managers work under the top level managers. There reporting managers are top level managers. They act as a bridge between the top-level management and lower-level managers, ensuring that the goals and objectives of the organization are effectively communicated and executed at all levels. They also play a crucial role in maintaining employee morale and productivity by addressing their concerns and providing them with necessary resources. Middle managers are also responsible for ensuring that the company’s policies and procedures are being followed by their subordinates. 

Middle level management executives are:

• General Manager
• Department Manager
• Director
• Chief Supervisor
• Regional Manager

First-Line Managers 

First-line managerial role is a entry level position of a management. They work directly with non-management employees and other project team members. They are responsible for internal work such as supervising employee productivity and holding employees accountable for achieving company goals. First-line managers are responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of a department or team, ensuring that tasks are completed efficiently and effectively. They also play a crucial role in communicating organizational goals and objectives to their team members. 

First- line management executives are:

• Supervisor
• Assistant Manager 
• Shift Manager
• Floor Manager
• Area Coordinator 

Team Leaders

Team leaders have specialization in a particular task or project. Team leaders are responsible for ensuring that their team members have the necessary resources and support to complete their tasks effectively. They must be able to communicate clearly and provide guidance to their team members whenever necessary. They are also responsible for maintaining team morale, resolving conflicts, and providing feedback to team members. They play a crucial role in ensuring that their team is productive and successful.

Also Read: What is Visual Communication and how useful it is in business and beyond?

Understanding Different Management Styles

The success of an organization is dependent on the management and the management style  adopted by its leaders. There are different types of management styles that managers employ based on the needs of the organization, the goals of the team, and the strengths of the manager. Some of the main management styles managers can employ are:

Visionary 

Skills like persuasion and charisma are the demanding skills of visionary leaders. Their eyes are always on the bigger picture. Visionary managers believe in leading by example to inspire their teams. They are able to communicate their vision effectively and motivate their team to work towards a common goal. Additionally, they are always looking for ways to innovate and improve processes to stay ahead of the competition. This management style can be a downfall if employees need a high degree of guidance. A visionary manager creates a compelling vision of the future and motivates their team to work towards that common vision together.

They have the ability to inspire creativity and innovation by directing their team leaders towards a clear vision and purpose. They foster a culture of collaboration and teamwork.

Autocratic Management Style

In an autocratic management style, the manager makes all decisions and has complete control over the team. The manager is seen as a figure of authority and can be perceived as a dictator. They constantly monitor and direct their employees. There is no collaboration from the team members, only the manager can make decisions according to their perspective. Certain situations can approve of this management style, such as during a crisis or in a high-pressure environment where decision-making needs to be quick, but with time it can result in low morale among the employees and little to no innovation within the team.

Democratic Management Style

A democratic management style promotes collaboration and feedback from the team in the decision-making process. Team members also contribute to the decision-making process of the organization. This ensures that you trust your team and respect their opinions and hard work. 

Democratic leaders usually believe that employees can govern themselves and that they are just acting as guides to keep things moving forward in the right direction.

Laissez-Faire Management Style

Laissez-faire management is a style in which the manager delegates authority and responsibilities to their team members. This style encourages a high degree of trust and autonomy on the part of team members. This management style practices a hands-off approach to management with minimal supervision or direction from the manager.

Highly skilled and experienced members of the team do not require a high level of supervision. This management style can be effective in this case. The team members are encouraged to show high levels of creativity and innovation as they are free to take risks and explore new ideas. However, it can lead to a lack of direction and accountability, and may not be beneficial for teams with less experienced members. 

Coaching Management Style

Coaching as a management style concentrates on developing team members skills and capabilities while focusing on their learning and development. The manager acts as a coach for the team. This management style can result in high levels of skill development and growth among team members as they continuously receive feedback and support from their manager. This management style fosters a culture of continuous improvement and innovation as it encourages team members to learn and experiment with new ideas.

Managers adopting this management style must have a high degree of emotional intelligence, as the process can be time-consuming.

The Skills of Effective Management

Effective management of an organization demands a certain set of skills and competencies that allow managers to lead their teams, achieve their goals, and foster a productive work environment. Some key skills that managers need are:

• Communication Skills: Successful management requires effective communication skills. Managers need the ability to communicate their expectations clearly and provide honest feedback to the team members. They need to listen actively to their team members to understand their opinions. Managers must be able to communicate information clearly, handle conflict, and cultivate positive relationships.

• Leadership Skills: A manager is a strong leader that inspires and motivates their team. In order to achieve this, it is necessary to establish clear objectives and a vision, provide support and guidance, and allow team members to take responsibility for their work.

• Decision-making Skills: An organization’s success depends on the decisions made by the manager. Decision-making skills entail gathering and analyzing information and  considering multiple options.

• Emotional Intelligence: Managers should be able to manage their own emotions well so that they understand their team members. They should be aware of their strengths and weaknesses and manage conflicts in a constructive manner. 

• Problem-solving Skills: Managers must have the ability to recognize issues and create effective solutions. This calls for the ability to assess circumstances, pinpoint the underlying causes, and develop original and creative solutions.

Also Read: Conflict Resolution- Effective Strategies from Conflicts to Collaboration

Conclusion

This blog discussed the different types of managers and management styles. Managers have different management styles, and they use these to motivate and lead their teams. Understanding these different management styles will help you become a potent manager in your workplace. Managers need to have certain skill sets to manage their team members effectively.