The Information Environments of New Managers

Abstract

This research looked at the mechanisms newly-assigned managers used for handling personnel problems. The study compared the perceptions and information behaviors of new managers who were coping with personnel problems versus those dealing with other types of workplace problems. Subjects handling personnel problems were more uncertain about the situation, and used the rich media channels of supervisors and peers significantly more often than did subjects dealing with non-personnel problems. Demographic characteristics that affected the choice of information sources included whether the new manager had been appointed from inside or outside, sex, age, hierar chical level, and the type of business. Input from the subjects stressed the need for more effective information linkages, especially for managers appointed from outside of the organization; frequent communication with superiors, improved liaison with peers, and the development of subordinates as information providers.