[author: Martha Newman, J.D.
Are You a Manager, a Leader - or Both?
Do you know the difference between a manager and a leader?
Managers are commanders; they get people to do what needs to be done. Leaders are communicators; they get people to want to do what needs to be done.
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Don't worry. You're not the only the one who may find the line between management and leadership a little muddy. While the two are distinctly different - both are complimentary.
Management is about controlling tasks and creating order in an environment, while leadership is about influencing and motivating staff. Without structured management and control, a business can become chaotic. Management is crucial to the success of every business.
Without successful leadership, however, employees are not motivated to do any more than the bare minimum – also eventually leading to chaos and disorder. Leadership without management cannot sustain change and make improvements. Furthermore, management without leadership is a goalless endeavor.
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Your firm needs both - management and leadership. And guess what? Managers can be leaders and vice versa. Businesses of any kind need managers who lead, inspire and motivate. To be a productive leader, positive relationships need to be formed. Staff need to be encouraged, nurtured, and nudged a bit. Healthy relationships in the workplace build an environment where employees want to complete their projects. Finding that right balance between management and leadership can come down to healthy relationships, inspiring staff and a productive environment that fosters growth and achievement.
Remember, whether you are a manage or a leader - your ultimate goal is the same: Success.