The Difference between a Leader and a Manager

If you comprehend the following notions well enough, leadership and management are the two things allowing you to take control of your life, achieve your objectives, and help others in doing so.

Although many people often consider these concepts identical, there are actually some differences between a leader and a manager. Just because you are a good manager, it does not necessarily mean you can become a good leader. And vice versa: not all leaders can manage personnel and resources efficiently.

No doubt, some individuals can succeed in both inspiring others to strive for achieving large-scale objectives and building a system that makes these objectives attainable. However, such occasions are rather an exception than a rule. So, let us comprehend the differences between these two roles.

Who is a Leader and Who is a Manager

In brief, leaders see the big picture and set the moving direction. They inspire others with their ideas, nourish their enthusiasm, and “transfuse” their desire to achieve a common goal into coworkers.

Managers develop detailed plans to achieve this vision and control implementation processes. They seek to create suitable systems, hire appropriate employees, optimize processes, and make sure that short-term objectives are met.

Consequently, we can explain the difference between a leader and a manager using two words: the former inspires people, and the latter directs them.

We can even put it like this: a manager is a job. This person is responsible for a specific scope of work and organizing activities as part of this scope. A leader is more of a personal trait.

Managers like to control, while leaders inspire trust. Managers focus on execution, while leaders focus on developing and empowering others. — Jo Miller

Both Roles are Important and will Lead to Success when Combined

Regardless of the company type, it is essential to understand you can achieve the best results having both types of individuals among your team: true leaders and good managers. Moreover, it is vital to understand this when we talk about self-development. You can work to develop both leadership and management skills.

Some people hold strong talent in management but lack leadership qualities. Others have clear leadership skills but cannot become effective managers due to various reasons. A good executive should create a system where both personality types will be cherished, giving talented people the opportunity to display their character.

78% of business leaders actively and regularly focus on engaging with their employees. Source: zippia.com

While working apart, a leader and a manager are unlikely to reach success. Any company needs someone who can predict the future and someone who can make a plan to find a path to this future.

What Qualities to Develop

The answer to this question largely depends on the environment you work in, the objectives you want to reach, and the people surrounding you. You also have to comprehend what of your personal qualities and skills are developed best, and what you personally like more. This approach will make it possible to find the correct direction of growth.

To start with, it would be good to analyze your own behavior and the peculiarities of your interaction with other people. That kind of self-assessment will help you understand in which role people will accept you better — as a leader or as a manager.

You can also pass special tests. They must help you understand yourself better, learn to use your best qualities more efficiently, understand what skills you lack, and find out what qualities you need to acquire.