Are you a natural-born leader or manager? Often the terms are used interchangeably, but the two positions are actually quite different from one another and complement one another. In this article we’ll look at characteristics of each, with the goal of helping you find the right career fit.
Leaders inspire and motivate. They are about raising the why-not questions. They communicate and set direction, create vision and strategy. They compel others to action, leading the way into new ways of doing business.
Managers plan, organize and coordinate. They take complex systems of people and technology and make them run efficiently and effectively. Some systems they maximize include budgeting, staffing and quality control.
In which of these descriptions do you see your skill set? How can you develop your skills to better serve within your profession?
For more, check out:
http://www.kotterinternational.com/our-principles/change-leadership
http://blogs.hbr.org/2013/08/tests-of-a-leadership-transiti/