Is a leader a manager and a manager a leader?
The art of leadership and the art of management are quite similar, but there is a line that divides the two.
Leadership is a characteristic that can exist without holding a position over people, without delegating tasks, etc. This trait is not always visible nor does it need to be. A true leader always has teh capability to rise to ever occasion and whenever there is a lack of, but does not necessarly radiate power. A leader is not always be in the position to manage others, however they have all the necessary requisites to handle the duties leadership entails with poise and prestige.
A manager already holds the leadership position, regardless of business acumen and the development of their competencies, hopefully already fully developed. Many managers face the tough realities that the position entails and succeed because of teh fact that they are able to not only function but excel in their other roles. There are some managers however, that cannot do this.
In conclusion, I believe that a leader doesn't necessarily have to be a manager, but a manager should exhibit all the aspects of a leader.
Hmm...
ReplyDeleteYour response to the question in hand was one of my favorites.
You did a phenomenal job in describing the roles of both leaders and managers, decribing ther differences and similiraties.
Great Job!