For most people, management and leadership are exactly the same things but there are huge differences between managers and leaders. While some of the best managers, like German Trujillo Manrique, are great leaders, this does not mean everyone is. In fact, many managers are not leaders, although they think they are. You need to be exceptional in order to be both an effective manager and a leader. Even so, both leadership and management are vital for the success and growth of a business.
Vision
The leaders have an ability to unite their teams around a specific vision. This is mainly because belief in a vision is keen. Employees simply end up wanting to follow the leaders. A person that is a good leader tends to take risks in order to fulfil visions.
Managers tend to be proficient and want to execute visions in highly systematic ways while guiding employees on an approach based on a strategy. They are capable of understanding how intricate aspects can work together. However, managers do not often want to take risks, especially if they are seen as being unnecessary.
Motivation
When we look at entrepreneurs, we see that most of them are not managers. They are leaders. However, it is the manager that leads the company or success cannot be achieved. There are managers that are capable of motivating and leaders could systemically implement strategies. However, these are not primary strengths. You need to see if you are a manager or a leader in order to make good choices that lead to business growth.
Performance
Leaders always feel accountable for change and pronouncements. They authorize people in order to make sure they achieve their own greatest potential while inspiring them. Leaders are often chosen based on performance, actions and view. When your goal is to become a leader, you need to influence others around you. Managers do not influence. They just manage actions and tasks for optimum outcome.
The very best way to inspire or to influence a person is through your own example. Remember that there is always some room for improvement. Analyzing what is happening is a mandatory part of the process. Just like the manager keeps his eyes on data, the leader keeps his eyes on team members in order to see how motivation can be increased.
Making An Impact
One thing you might not realize is that staff members often know who the leaders are in a company but they do not instantly remember the managers. This is due to making a true impact in the lives of the employees, both at a professional and a personal level. The greatest leaders are those that influence their teams. Leadership is so much more than just establishing some goals and then achieving them with the help of a team. This is what managers do.
Final Thoughts
There are differences between managers and leaders. What is important is to be honest with yourself and realize which one you are. This allows you to see what your weaknesses and strengths are.