Katz’s Three Managerial Skills, widely used in management studies:
Katz’s Three Managerial Skills
Robert L. Katz proposed that effective managers need three essential types of skills to perform their roles successfully:
1. Technical Skills
- These are job-specific skills that involve understanding and using tools, techniques, procedures, or knowledge of a particular field.
- Example: An engineer knowing how to use CAD software, or an accountant using tally/financial tools.
2. Human Skills (Interpersonal Skills)
- These refer to the ability to work effectively with people, communicate clearly, motivate team members, and build good relationships.
- Managers with strong human skills are good listeners, team-oriented, and empathetic.
3. Conceptual Skills
- These involve the ability to see the bigger picture, think strategically, analyze complex situations, and solve problems creatively.
- Managers with conceptual skills can understand how different parts of the organization fit together and plan for the future.
Skill Importance at Different Managerial Levels
Managerial LevelTechnical SkillsHuman SkillsConceptual SkillsTop Level Managers Low High Very High Middle Level Managers Medium High Medium Lower / First-line Managers Very High High Low
Summary
Katz’s model highlights that:
- Technical skills are most important for lower-level managers.
- Human skills are essential at all levels.
- Conceptual skills are crucial for top-level management.
