The principles of management are not rigid prescriptions, which have to be followed absolutely. They are flexible and can be modified by the manager when the situation so demands. They give the manager enough discretion to do so. The flexibility of these principles allows managers to adapt their strategies and approaches based on the unique circumstances they encounter.

General guidelines: The principles are guidelines to action but do not provide readymade, straitjacket solutions to all managerial problems. This is so because real business situations are very complex and dynamic and are a result of many factors.

The term "contingent" reflects the idea that the application of management principles is contingent upon the specific context and conditions.

Mainly Behavioural : Management principles aim at influencing behaviour of human beings. Therefore, principles of management are mainly behavioural in nature.