M/s Zeman Ltd. deals in consumer goods. It employs 100 workers and 10 operative managers who give guidance and support to the workers while operating the machinery. The company has a policy of granting leave as per the requirements of the workers. Workers are generally granted leave on festivals and special occasions. Recently, at the Puja festival, it received a big order. Workers were keen to take Puja holidays while management was pressing hard for overtime. This matter was placed before the Personnel Manager, who called the meeting of operative managers by circulating a circular among the operative managers. Operative managers were told to inform the workers about the changes in the incentive plan which states payment of double wages for working overtime and triple wages for working on holidays. Workers, without any pressure, voluntarily took limited holidays and were able to increase their earnings by working overtime and on holidays. During the Board of Directors meeting, the Personnel Manager was asked to update the management to achieve higher output, meeting timely supplies without any confrontation with workers. The personnel manager replied, “I just used a carrot with a no-sticks approach”.
Which element of directing is highlighted in the line, “this matter was placed before the Personnel Manager who called the meeting of operative managers by circulating a circular among the operative managers.”?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 1
The correct answer is Option (1) → Communication
Option (1) Communication — Correct. Communication is the process of exchanging facts, ideas and information between persons. The Personnel Manager sent a circular to the operative managers and called them to a meeting, so that the message could pass from him to them.
Option (2) Leadership — Incorrect. Leadership is influencing people to work willingly. Sending a circular to call a meeting is passing on information.
Option (3) Supervision — Incorrect. Supervision is overseeing workers at their jobs, not calling managers to a meeting.
Option (4) Motivation — Incorrect. Motivation stirs people to act through incentives or needs. No incentive is involved in this line.
NCERT (2026-27 Edition): “Definitions of Communication The word communication has been derived from the Latin word ‘communis’ which means ‘common’ which consequently implies common understanding. Communication is defined in different ways. Generally, it is understood as a process of exchange of ideas, views, facts, feelings, etc., between or among people to create common understanding.” |