What is likely to happen if a manager has a high number of subordinates?

When a manager has a high number of subordinates, it can lead to a situation where the manager may struggle to maintain direct oversight and effective communication with each team member. This increase in the span of control can overwhelm the manager, making it challenging to monitor performance, provide support, and ensure that tasks are completed according to expectations. As a result, the manager might find it difficult to influence and guide their team effectively, which can lead to a loss of control over team dynamics and productivity.

In contrast, having complete control is less feasible when overseeing a large group, as personal interaction with each subordinate can diminish. Similarly, while communication might not become more efficient—often the opposite occurs when too many subordinates are involved—subordinates may not necessarily feel more empowered. Empowerment tends to arise from effective communication and individual attention, both of which can be compromised with a higher number of subordinates. Thus, the likelihood of losing control emphasizes the challenges associated with managing larger teams in an organizational context.