Management and Leadership
Oftentimes, people use the terms leader and manager interchangeably. However, the difference between the two is distinct. The roles and responsibilities of these positions are equally important in ensuring the success of a company. The employee which holds one of these positions must be aware of what is expected of them. Each position must be examined in detail to define clearly the differences between a manager and a leader. What makes a good leader? How do managers lead? By answering these questions one will discover how managers and leaders work to create and maintain a healthy organizational culture. Executives will then be able to contribute to their company’s success.
Management. Management can be defined as the process of planning, leading, organizing and controlling people within a group in order to achieve goals (Beech & Chadwick, 2004). Management is a function that is essential to every business. Managers not only plan and set goals but, they also make certain that the company meets these goals by effectively directing employees and other resources. When in pursuit of reaching the company’s goals, if a problem arises managers are responsible for analyzing the dilemma and determining the most efficient solution. Good managers demonstrate rationality and control along with persistence, intelligence, and tolerance. Many managers are task-oriented and therefore, remain focused on the bottom line of the organization. Unfortunately, while focusing on the success of the company, these same managers often neglect the feelings of their subordinates. For this reason, subordinates perceive these types of managers as staunch and unapproachable. Depending on the management style preferred by the subordinates, employee morale can suffer in this environment. Perhaps managers should seek to be effective leaders as well as successful managers.
Leadership. What is the greatest difference between leadership and management?...