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Managing Versus Leading and Why We Need Both
Whenever I hear questions that use the word "or" in between two choices, a flag will go up in my mind that prepares me to answer the question with "both". Lets take a look at a few examples: Is it better to be interested or interesting? The answer is both. Should I work out or diet to lose weight? The answer is both. Do we need more managers or leaders? The answer is both.
Below is a list of the differences between managers and leaders that I believe are accurate:(I am sorry to say I no longer know the original source of the list)
Managers
- Carry out agendas and decisions
- Maintain status quo
- Act in the now
- Put off learning until needed
- Maintains company policy
Leaders
- Create agendas
- Make decisions that align with values and vision
- Critical of current status and wanting improvement
- Continually learning to stretch self and company
- Uses policy for decisions but uses values to guide more
The reason we need both managers and leaders is because many leaders I know are wonderful at creating visions but have great difficulty in their execution. A manager who excels at carrying out agendas and decisions is worth their weight in gold as this allows the leader to focus more on the strategic versus tactical issues of the day. I think a great leader actually has the ability to discern when it is best to act like a manager and when it is best to act like a leader. Sometimes it is best to do what has always been done because it has a proven track record. Change, just for the sake of change, does not lead to better results.
Now having said all of this, I do want to offer those managers that have a hard time with change the opportunity to tap into their inner leader.
Question:
Are you struggling to become a better leader? Do you often maintain the status quo or the way you have always done things because it is easier and safer?
Call to Action:
When your comfort zone is to maintain status quo or keep things safe and routine, ask yourself why are you doing this, how does it meet your long term goals and can it be done differently to improve productivity?
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