Final answer:
Leading represents the practice of directing and inspiring individuals to work toward company objectives, focusing on the human aspects of management and requiring qualities such as empathy and effective decision-making.
Step-by-step explanation:
The practice of directing and inspiring individuals to successfully work toward company objectives is known as Leading. This encompasses the process of influencing, motivating, and enabling others to contribute to the success of the organization. Leadership is distinct from other management processes like Planning, Organizing, Staffing, and Controlling. Each of these plays a crucial role in management, but leading is specifically associated with the human aspect of guiding the team towards the achievement of set goals. It's not just about giving directions; it's about encouraging commitment, fostering new ideas, and building an environment where team members are willing to go above and beyond to meet objectives.
Good leaders demonstrate qualities such as empathy, decision-making capabilities, and the ability to delegate effectively. For instance, a manager using leading skills might inspire their team through a motivational speech or by setting a positive example in their own work habits. A leader constantly seeks ways to improve team dynamics and ensures that individuals feel valued and understood. This personal approach is what differentiates leading from more mechanical aspects of management such as controlling or planning.