Can A Manager Also Be A Leader?
“What if I’m a manager or a team coach?
Can a manager be a leader, too?”
That’s a good question. Let’s take a closer look at it.
Managers vs Leaders
In my previous article, we talked about the essential qualities of successful leadership. At the top of the list was ‘vision’. A successful leader has a vision, something they can see so clearly, and they’re so passionate about, that their employees will understand it and feel passionate about it too.
But even though a manager isn’t in charge of the vision, they are instrumental in helping to make the vision a reality. And, to accomplish that goal in the very best way possible, they’ll need to utilise almost all the other qualities that make a successful leader. After all, managing people is a lot easier when your team members trust who you are, understand what you’re asking them to do and why you’re asking them to do it, and know you’ll listen to them and support them whenever they need your help.
Here’s an example of two management styles. Both these managers are doing the same job, but in my opinion, one of them is a manager who is also a leader. Give it a read and see what you think.
