Activity 1 a) Though the two terms seem similar on the surface, in reality they are quite different. A great manager does not necessarily make a great leader, and a great leader does not necessarily make a great manager. Management controls or directs people/resources in a group according to principles or values that have already been established. Leadership is setting a new direction or vision for a group that they follow, i.e.: a leader is the spearhead for that new direction. The manager uses a formal, rational method whilst the leader uses passion and stirs emotions.
People naturally and willingly follow leaders due to their charisma and personality traits, whereas a manager is obeyed due to the formal authority vested in him/her. As a result, people tend to be more loyal towards leaders rather than managers.
Managers supervise employees. They make plans, delegate responsibilities, and coordinate activities. Their goal is to create something that is definable and repeatable.
Leaders are focused on bringing about innovation and change for the company. Their primary role is to inspire people and to motivate employees. They are focused on change. They create a sense of vision, hope, and alignment among employees.
An organisation cannot thrive without a manager, and it cannot thrive without a leader. Leadership and management must go hand in hand to be successful - both in corporate and casual settings. They are linked, and complimentary to one another.
Managers will: Leaders will:
Administrate Innovate
Maintain Develop
Focus on systems and/or structures Focus on people
Rely on their control Inspire trust in people
Hold short range views Have a longer range perspective
Ask ‘how’ and ‘when’ Ask ‘what’ and ‘why’
Keep an eye on the bottom line Keep an eye on the horizon
Imitate Originate
Accept the status quo Challenge it
Be a classic good soldier Be his/her