Management VS Leadership

Many people would think that having the title of manager automatically makes someone a leader. Unfortunately in the world we live in today, that is not the case.

A quote by Grace Murray Hopper says it the best.

"You manage things; you lead people"

But what is the difference between the two? It is the way the two styles motivate people in order to achieve objectives. A leader sets goals, challenges minds and motivates. A manager conforms to the standard and manages teams around a set boundary. Manager rely on control of their team because they have a formal position. A leader isn' always bound to a formal position. Leaders  focus more on achieving tasks while managers focus work and tasks. Managers plan, budget, organize, and control, time manage, problem solve and make decision. Leaders have vision, motivate and inspire, team work, build relationships, listen, coach, and teach. 

The table below is an example of how some subjects are differentiated between the two.

I believe that in order to have the most effective strategy in an organizational settings, a person must use both styles. A great manager should be able to perform good leadership skills and have a strong grasp of management techniques. There is a fine line between management and leadership and it is best to walk to that line somewhere in the middle.