X and Y Management Styles

… two management styles-X and Y-based on the assumptions held by managers about the motives of their staff.

Management theorist Douglas McGregor distinguished two management styles-X and Y-based on the assumptions held by managers about the motives of their staff. X-style managers believe that workers need to be coerced and directed. They tend to be strict and controlling, giving their workers little latitude and punishing poor performance. They use few rewards and typically give only negative feedback. These managers see little point in workers having autonomy, because they think that the workforce neither expects nor desires cooperation.

Y-style assumptions reflect a much more optimistic view of human nature. Y-style management contends that people will gladly direct themselves toward objectives if their efforts are appropriately rewarded. Managers who hold Y assumptions assume a great deal of confidence in their workers. They are less directive and empower workers, giving them more responsibilities and freedom to accomplish tasks as they deem appropriate. They believe that people have hidden potential and the job of the manager is to find and utilize it.

ACTION POINT: Evaluate your management style. Are you X or Y?