Managers vs. Leaders

Published 20080114 by Olivier Blanchard | E-mail this post

Mike Bawden (who was kind enough to quote me on his blog a while back) once wrote one of the simplest yet most astute observations about leadership that I have ever read:

"Too many times business owners seem to be satisifed spending their careers as managers rather than leaders. When you see real leadership in action, you're left in awe. Real leaders are active, engaged and motivating. They create an atmosphere that's electric - both fun and productive."

Well said.

Management is static. Management fosters a predictable business-as-usual , don't-rock-the-boat, status-quo, bureaucratic environment.

Leadership is dynamic. It drives a business forward. It is unstoppable. You either commit to it and get on the train, or you get left behind.

Managers can become leaders, but managing and leading are far from the same thing.

There is no middle-ground.

Labels: leaders, leadership, management