What is the Difference Between Leadership and Management?

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What is the Difference Between Leadership and Management?

Would you agree that it is possible for a person to be a good manager, but lack leadership skills?

Probably, yes.

So, we can say that leadership and management are similar, but different concepts.

Both the leaders and managers need the following six core skills.

1. Clear purpose (goal setting).
2. Clear and persuasive communication skills.
3. Planning skills; rational organisation of people and time.
4. Managing conflict and performance management skills.
5. Inspire self.
6. Inspire others.

The difference between leadership and management is one of emphasis.

Leaders specialise in clear goal setting, persuasive communication skills, inspiring self and inspiring others.

Managers specialise in rational organisation of people and time and managing conflict and performance management skills.

So, we can give the following definitions:

Definition of leadership:

Leadership is the art of creating and communicating a clear vision, in a way that inspires others to work together, to achieve it.

Definition of management:

Management is the art of planning and organising people and resources, and managing performance and internal conflicts, in order to achieve the goals that have been set (by the leadership team).

Ideally:

Leaders should also have well-developed people management skills.

Managers should have well-developed leadership qualities.

Sadly, some don't.

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About the Author: Chris Farmer

Chris Farmer is the founder of the Corporate Coach Group and has many years’ experience in training leaders and managers, in both the public and private sectors, to achieve their organisational goals, especially during tough economic times. He is also well aware of the disciplines and problems associated with running a business.

Over the years, Chris has designed and delivered thousands of training programmes and has coached and motivated many management teams, groups and individuals. His training programmes are both structured and clear, designed to help delegates organise their thinking and, wherever necessary, to improve their techniques and skills.

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Further Reading in Leadership and Management

• What skills do I need to be a better leader?
  It is true that SOME leaders are born leaders, but most leaders are MADE. Despite what you have heard, leadership is not an innate talent. You can learn to be a better leader with the right training.
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• If the Success Formula is so Simple, Why Isn't Everyone Doing It?
  The success formula is simple to understand. It consists of only five major ideas: Purpose, plan, action, feedback, change. So, the obvious question is, if the success formula is so simple, why isn't everyone doing it?
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• What is the difference between a leader and a manager
  Learn the difference between leaders and managers, and how to improve your leadership and management skills. Read more online today.
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• Leadership skills training: More is not necessarily better
  More is not necessarily better In order to lead others, you need to be able to make good decisions; nobody wants to follow a leader who makes terrible decisions. In order to make good decisions, you need to have the right ideas in your mind. If your mind is operating according...
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• How to Lead People Through Tough Times
  With all leaders having to face tough decisions in business, you must consistently lead and motivate your team. Discover how to effectively lead your team.
  Read Article >

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