Final answer:
A manager is a person who regularly performs all four management functions and has authority over other jobs and individuals. Managers are crucial in shaping an employee's career through opportunities for development, influence on promotions, and their impact on job satisfaction. They act within an organizational hierarchy and their effectiveness is related to their managerial qualities.
Step-by-step explanation:
The person who completes all four management functions on a regular basis and has authority over other jobs and people is typically known as a manager. Managers hold a significant role within an organization, responsible for oversight, providing opportunities for skill development, influencing decisions related to promotions and raises, and maintaining the motivation and job satisfaction of their subordinates. In essence, a manager has the capacity to shape an employee's career trajectory through various forms of support, recommendations, and overall managerial approach.
Within the hierarchy of authority, managers act as a link in the chain of command, from front-line managers reporting to higher-level managers, all the way up to the executive level. This structured system dictates how tasks are assigned and how responsibilities are allocated. Additionally, managers can range from various types, such as shift managers in retail, stage managers in theatre productions, and other management positions in different sectors including human resources, marketing, finance, and healthcare.
Having a competent manager can significantly affect the working environment and productivity. The best managers are usually described as knowledgeable, fair, appreciative, responsive, and approachable. These qualities facilitate a positive work atmosphere and lead to better performance and job satisfaction among the team members.