________ is referred to as both a line as well as a staff activity, i.e., an essential function of the manager, as well as an advisory role played by the Human Resource Department.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 4
The correct answer is Option (4) → Staffing
Option (1) Communication — Incorrect. Communication is an element of directing. It is done by every manager, but there is no separate advisory department for it.
Option (2) Leadership — Incorrect. Leadership is also an element of directing, performed by the manager himself.
Option (3) Motivation — Incorrect. Motivation too is an element of directing, not a function with its own department.
Option (4) Staffing — Correct. Staffing is a line activity because every manager has to select, train and look after the people working under him. It is also a staff activity because the Human Resource Department gives advice and specialist help on these matters. So staffing is both a function of every manager and a separate functional area, like marketing or finance.
NCERT (2026-27 Edition): “Evolution of Human Resource Management … It is important to understand that staffing is both a function of management just like planning, organising, directing, and controlling as well as a distinct functional area of management just as marketing management and financial management. Staffing, is therefore, referred to as both a line as well as a staff activity i.e., an essential function of the manager as well as an advisory role played by the Human Resource Department.” |
Note: The same/similar question has been asked in different years by NTA as per the details given below:
| 2026 | 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 |
| 13-05 S1 12-05 S1 | – | – | – | – |