Which type of authority allows an HR manager to direct the activities of their own department?

Line authority is the correct answer because it grants managers the right to make decisions and direct the activities of their own department and its employees. This type of authority is typically associated with a clear chain of command, where managers at various levels can supervise and direct the work of teams directly under them.

This is crucial in an HR context as it enables HR managers to effectively implement policies, manage personnel, and oversee employee relations without needing permission from higher management for day-to-day operations. The clear delineation of responsibilities helps ensure that HR initiatives align with the organization’s overall goals.

In contrast, staff authority generally involves advisory roles without direct control over the outcomes, leaving the implementation and decision-making to line authority holders. Functional authority usually pertains to specific areas of expertise across departments rather than general managerial control, while project authority is more temporary and specific to particular projects rather than ongoing departmental management.