Do you have to be one or the other? What’s the difference?
There is a difference but truly successful people have qualities of both and can switch between leader and manager as the situation dictates.
Let’s say a report indicates that your company’s customer service performance has slipped. A manager books the conference room and sets up training “re-fresher” meetings to review company expectations with employees. A leader calls a meeting to talk to employees and motivates them to re-focus on customer service; two approaches that achieve the same outcome.
Managers are organized, goal-oriented problem solvers. A good manager analyses a situation, finds the best solution and works in that direction.
Leaders have a vision and are passionate about their ideas. They thrive on change and continually seek innovations.
Managers are perceived as boring because they tend to spend more time reading reports than interacting with employees. They want to ensure that things run efficiently and on budget. A good manager works tirelessly to achieve set goals. Managers connect their identity to their company; their work is who they are.
Leaders are dynamic, inspiring the people around them with their passion. Leaders communicate and are able to relate to people in a way that builds loyalty. A strong leader has a “world” view that extends beyond the company.
Leaders and managers; very different people but both are needed for business success. Next time I’ll tell you how to balance the two.
Learn, Experience, Enjoy Global Success!
Jinsoo Terry
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