Manager versus Leader

This statement is not understood by many people, especially in the business environment.

My experience and that of my wife Sandra coincides with that of many other people on this topic.

Unfortunately, people often talk about leaders who are not. Or from managers who have no leadership qualities.

The direct translation from English is not helpful in this regard, because a leader is more than just a manager!

The following points clarify what we mean by the statement:

1. Vision and Goal Setting

• Manager: Focuses on setting, measuring, and achieving short-term goals. They ensure tasks are completed and targets are met within given parameters.
• True Leader: Paints a vision for the future and inspires others to follow it. They think long-term and create a roadmap that aligns with the organization's purpose and individual aspirations.

2. Motivation and Inspiration

• Manager: Relies on formal authority and control to motivate employees, often using incentives, rewards, and penalties.
• True Leader: Inspires and motivates through their passion, trust, and influence. They empower their team by fostering a sense of purpose and belonging.

3. Approach to Change

• Manager: Often acts as a stabilizer, focusing on consistency and reducing variability. They may resist change to maintain control and predictability.
• True Leader: Embraces change and innovation. Leaders see opportunities in change and encourage creativity and experimentation within their teams.

4. Decision-Making

• Manager: Generally takes a risk-averse approach, making decisions based on established policies and procedures.
• True Leader: Willing to take calculated risks and make bold decisions. They trust their instincts and encourage their team to do the same.

5. Communication

• Manager: Communicates in a directive manner, often giving orders and instructions and expecting them to be followed.
• True Leader: Engages in open, active communication and listens attentively. They encourage dialogue, feedback, and collaboration.

6. Employee Development

• Manager: Focuses on tasks and processes and often prioritizes immediate performance over long-term development.
• True Leader: Invests in people, focusing on their growth, development, and well-being. They mentor, coach, and create opportunities for their team to learn and advance.

7. Influence and Power

• Manager: Wields power through organizational structure and positional authority.
• True Leader: Gains influence through credibility, trust, and respect. Their power comes from their ability to inspire and rally others around a common goal.

When I think of true leaders, the first thing that comes to mind is Jesus Christ. There is no one next to him who has influenced and continues to influence so many people!

Other leaders were: Martin Luther King Jr, Mahatma Gandhi, Mother Theresa, Nelson Mandela.