DIFFERENCE BETWEEN LEADER AND MANAGER

Difference between Leader and Manager

Difference between Leader and Manager

Introduction

This has been a matter of debate for last few decades, that what are the differences between a leader and a manager and which one is more beneficial for the firm. If we look at this from a broader prospective, every organization needs both managers and leaders to function and grow properly. It is a common perception that both these terms are synonymous to each other, but this is not true and later in this report; we will discuss why it is not true. As mentioned earlier, it is important for an organization to have both leaders and managers, but it is equally important to identify them and place them accordingly. In order to that, identifying their differences is the primary task, as this would allow the organization to make a clear differentiation between the two types and utilizes them efficiently.

Discussion

The differences in leaders and managers are numerous, and we will discuss them in regards with the Apple inc. Steve job is regarded as one the most prolific corporate leader the world has ever seen. It was his leadership skills which led Apple to the success it has achieved. Although there are numerous differences between a manager and a leader but not all the differences, can be discussed, however some of the main ones are following.

Role model

One major difference between leaders and managers is the level of inspiration they give to the one working under them. The leaders are more often regarded as Role models. They lead by example rather than dictating or delegating things. People within the organization follow them, if we analyze Apple inc. Steve Jobs was imitated, not only in his own company, but also people in other organizations. This imitation is not only limited to the way of working and conduct of work, if look at Steve Jobs, his one personality trait was admired all around the world, and that was his public speaking skills, which were imitated by many after him. Normally this is not the case with managers; they tend to manage the people working under them, and might train them as well, but there are very rare managers who are followed by their subordinates, and serve as role models. It can also be said that people follow manager for the virtue of their job description, whereas following of leaders does not require any formal delegation, it is the inspiration which leads people to follow them.

Vision and objectives

Taking the example we are carrying in this case, it is not an unknown fact that Steve Jobs' vision was the thing that carried Apple where it is today. Nothing can be taken away from managers and the creative department in the organization which worked so hard for such break through innovations like iPods, iPhone and iPads. Now considering the difference between leaders and managers, it is one of leader's fundamental characteristics that they formulate and give vision to the organization, or any department they ...