Are you a Manager or are you a Leader? Series 6 of 10

Are you a Manager or are you a Leader? Series 6 of 10

You might be surprised at how clear the distinction is between a leader and a manager. My series of ten articles comparing both will outline traits which defines both.

Managers are not necessarily followers and leaders are not necessarily managers. Exploring the differences may provide another perspective for which you can judge your own progress.

Manager                                                                 Leader

Has a short range view                                         Has a long-range perspective

Always has their eye on the bottom line            Always has their eye on the horizon

Managers at many levels are concerned about results daily or monthly performance and quarterly goals. Some managers may focus on yearly achievements but we will rarely witness a manager looking beyond the most immediate objectives.

In comparison, a leader will rarely concentrate on mundane issues facing an organization. As a leader, your attention is spent on the direction a company should take or taking the corporate culture to the next level. Or build the strength of the company through its people. Leaders need to prepare a succession plan for all areas of a company including their own. A leader develops others into leaders.

A long-range perspective is less stressful than meeting quarterly goals and your vision effects everyone in the organization. Don’t you want to be a leader? After all, a wolf doesn’t care what sheep have to say!