“So what’s the difference between a leader and a manger”, I hear you ask? Tell me how many great leaders dead or alive can you name? Ten, 20 or even more given the time no doubt. Now ask yourself the question – “How many great managers can I name?” (and by the way you can only have one sports personality!).

Why is it so hard to name great managers? They no doubt exist in organisations across the globe? Who was in Steve Jobs’ amazing management team? One of the reasons it’s so difficult to name great managers, is because they work behind the scenes. What is it that great managers do? If you can add the word management to it, they do it!

Time management, resource management, project management, etc. In essence they plan, organise, coordinate, problem solve, deal with discipline, conduct appraisals and so the list goes on!

By contrast our memorable leaders inspire and motivate us to achieve their vision. They are persuasive characters and we work for them because we want to, not because we have to! Take a look at the list below – where do you see yourself….?

Which are you …. a leader or a manager? What do your crew need from you? The motivation and inspiration a leader can give in order for crew to have the stamina to see the job through, or provide management and the tools to get on and do the job? Clearly the answer lies in both – regardless of which you gravitate towards (and rest assured, one will be easier for you than the other!), crew will need you to flex between the two all day, every day.

General Slim put it in a nutshell.

“Management is of the mind, leadership is of the spirit.”

Whilst the leaders paint the vision, the managers make it happen. Finding the right balance can be a challenge. Lead too much with few clear standards and you risk a rule of chaos and poor discipline. Manage too much, you end up stifling crew morale and become the micromanager you loathed working beneath.

Impact Crew’s experienced team of highly professional consultants are on hand to support you to develop both your leadership and management skills. If you think leaders are born, all you need do is take a look at a number of more recent politicians to see how they have gown with the benefit of coaching and mentoring over their years at the helm! Contact us now to find out how one of our highly specialised consultants can support you on your leadership and management journey.