On the basis of the passage given below, Answer the questions.
Everyone realised that Kalyani Joshi was extremely ambitious and was seeking a higher-level management position. When one of her sales representatives did a good job, she would attempt to take the credit. However, if a problem arose, she thought it was not her fault. For Adarsh, the general manager, providing good and effective direction is a challenging task as it involves many complexities. Adarsh, the general manager, has to deal with people like Kalyani Joshi with diverse backgrounds and expectations. This complicates the directing process. Adarsh is of the viewpoint that directing techniques must help every individual in the organisation to contribute to his maximum for achievement of organisational objectives. Adarsh holds a convincing thought that employee rewards and work efficiency are complimentary to each other. Adarsh ensured that every person in his organisation should receive instructions from one superior only. Adarsh also ensured that appropriate motivational and leadership techniques should be used while directing the people based on subordinate needs, capabilities, attitudes and other situational variables. Adarsh tried to maintain effective managerial contact across all the levels in the organisation, making direction effective. He conveyed clear instructions to create total understanding to subordinates.
"Adarsh ensured that every person in his organisation should receive instructions from one superior only". Which of the following guiding principles of directing has been highlighted in the aforesaid statement?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → Principle of unity of command
Option (1) Principle of harmony of objectives — Incorrect. This principle is about matching employee rewards with work efficiency. The statement is about the number of superiors.
Option (2) Principle of unity of command — Correct. This is the principle of unity of command: a person in the organisation should receive instructions from one superior only. If orders come from more than one boss, it creates confusion, conflict and disorder.
Option (3) Principle of appropriateness of direction technique — Incorrect. This principle is about choosing the right motivation and leadership technique for each person.
Option (4) Principle of managerial communication — Incorrect. This principle is about clear communication at all levels.
NCERT (2026-27 Edition): “Harmony of objectives: … But, good directing should provide harmony by convincing that employee rewards and work efficiency are complimentary to each other.” “Unity of Command: This principle insists that a person in the organisation should receive instructions from one superior only. If instructions are received from more than one, it creates confusion, conflict and disorder in the organisation. Adherence to this principle ensures effective direction.” “Appropriateness of direction technique: According to this principle, appropriate motivational and leadership technique should be used while directing the people based on subordinate needs, capabilities, attitudes and other situational variables. …” |