Many people use the terms “manager” and “leader” interchangeably, without considering the important differences between the two words and the two concepts. Management is the act or art of managing; the conducting or supervision of something. It also means the judicious use of means to accomplish an end. (Being a manager sounds sort of boring doesn’t it?)
Leadership, on the other hand is to guide or direct on a course. Leadership is also to direct operations and activity toward a conclusion. It means to have charge of, and go before. (Now that sounds cool, ‘going before’ sounds like some military general leading his troops into battle.)
Managers make sure resources are used wisely and that the job gets done. These resources could include your budget, equipment, programs and supplies. One of the resources a manager manages is human resources, or employees.
Leaders, on the other hand, enlist the support of others in the accomplishment of a common task, or a set of tasks to achieve a set of specific goals.
Managers look at the bottom line, leaders look at the horizon.
Good leaders are often good managers. A good manager can become a good leader by paying attention to the human side of business.
Becoming a Leader
The differences between a manager and a leader are subtle. Sometimes it just takes being aware of people. Here are some people-oriented tasks and attitudes that can transform you from a manager into a leader:
• Purpose: When team members have a high sense of purpose in their jobs and achievements, they are happier and do a better job. A leader helps team members find their own individual purpose.
• Tools & Training: Your team can’t do a good job if they don’t have the right tools and expertise to use these tools. This sometimes requires an investment of money to purchase tools and pay for training. Investing in tools and training is something a leader does, it shows respect and concern for your team as individuals.
• Timelines: As a manager you have responsibility over timelines. As a leader you have responsibility over how your team is affected by these timelines.
• Individual Fit: Individuals like to feel like they fit into a group and into their job. Having a job that matches their interests and skills is important for every member of your team. The right job gives an individual the opportunity to live up to his potential. It also lets him have pride in a job well done.
• Teambuilding: Combining the strengths of your employees can help you build a successful team. By focusing on each member’s strengths, and mitigating their weaknesses, you can get more out of your team. A team of people who can work effectively on their own, as well as together, is a huge asset to you as a leader.
Here's a couple of additional resources that can transform your leadership:
