According to Fayol, what is the act of directing or guiding others in a course of action called?

The act of directing or guiding others in a course of action is termed “Leading” according to Fayol's principles of management. Leading involves influencing and motivating individuals or groups to achieve company goals and objectives. It encompasses various aspects such as communication, motivation, and leadership styles, which are critical for fostering a positive work environment and ensuring that the team is aligned with the organization's vision.

In the context of Fayol’s management theory, leading not only focuses on providing direction but also involves inspiring and encouraging team members to perform at their best. It plays a pivotal role in ensuring that team efforts are directed towards achieving desired outcomes, which is essential for effective management.

The other terms, while related, represent different aspects of management: managing relates to the overall process of planning, organizing, leading, and controlling resources; supervising generally refers to overseeing direct reports and ensuring they complete their tasks; and coordinating involves ensuring that various parts of an organization are working together effectively. While all these functions are interconnected, leading specifically captures the essence of directing and guiding individuals in their actions.