What is the difference between management and leadership?

The terms “management” and “leadership” are often used interchangeably. But there are some important differences between them.

Management is more operational and is about getting things done through planning, organising, directing, and controlling resources in order to achieve a specific goal. Managing means taking responsibility for setting goals, developing strategies, allocating resources and overseeing the day-to-day operations of a team or organisation.

Leadership is more about people and includes the ability to influence and motivate others to achieve a common goal. Leaders set a vision or direction for the future and building strong relationships with stakeholders so that vision can be realised. Leading means developing people and creating a positive work environment where people can thrive.

Managers are focused on task, results and operations. Leaders are focused on people and purpose. Managers notice the numbers and where projects are successful. Leaders notice the culture and whether people have what they need to be successful.

Here are some other key differences between management and leadership:

• Management is about control, while leadership is about influence. Managers use their authority to get things done, while leaders use emotional intelligence to empower others.
• Management is about control, while leadership is about agility. Managers create detailed plans and strategies, while leaders adapt to change and make decisions on the fly.
• Management is about efficiency, while leadership is about effectiveness. Managers are focused on getting the most out of their resources, while leaders are focused on helping people do their best.

So, which is more important: management or leadership?  Can we even have one without the other?

shooksvensen believes that both management and leadership are essential for business success. In fact, great leaders are good at getting great results. An organisation needs a great working environment and people who want to be successful, and there needs to be structures and processes for how things get done.

At shooksvensen, we develop leaders and support coaches and Learning and Development specialists to develop leaders as they coach or create a development plan for an organisation.

Leadership starts with emotional intelligence and self-development. We offer Rewired to Relate to begin that journey.

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