Leading people versus managing people are two very different roles. Although both are considered important and influential positions at the higher end of a corporate career ladder, they are, in fact, very different areas of expertise.
Both managers and leaders share some commonalities, in that they are both involved in decision making processes, they are both there to meet and exceed organisational goals, and they must both possess great interpersonal skills.
Manager Vs. Leader Roles
Leaders work with teams to create vision and progress. They promote a deep sense of team collaboration, with the realisation that it is only with a solid team that this vision can become a reality. In contrast, a manager will set targets and goals. These are measurable and can be scrutinised, incentivising teams to exceed objectives and expectations.
Leaders are innovative and by pushing boundaries, they can inspire a team to greatness. A manager works with tried and tested systems. Their focus is on structure, process, and measurable targets, rather than abstract concepts.
A leader is more willing to take risks, knowing that even with mistakes, lessons can be learnt. A manager will work to the opposite principle; that risks should be minimised, avoided, and controlled.
Finally, whereas a manager is more apt for designing processes and procedures that serve for the good of the organisation, a leader is more concerned with building relationships and creating a great team dynamic.
Professional Support
There is a wealth of support available for interim managers and interim leader professionals.
By building up a community with other like-minded interim management professionals, there are opportunities for mentorship, collaboration, or gaining insights from others with real life experience. Whatever your interim professional role is, you can reach your full potential by learning from and gaining support from others.
An independent professional body for leaders and managers alike ensures that professionals are kept up to date with industry relevant news, legislation, and training requirements. This gives them the leading edge over candidates who may have similar work experience.
