You hold the title of Team Leader, but are you genuinely leading your people, or are you merely managing them? While both roles are essential in a business, the impact they have is vastly different. Understanding the distinction between managing and leading can transform your approach as well as the success of your team and business.

Managers Focus on the Present; Leaders Look to the Future

Managers:

Present-Oriented: Managers are adept at handling the here and now. They focus on ensuring tasks are completed, deadlines are met, and the day-to-day operations run smoothly. This role is crucial for maintaining stability and order within an organization.

Leaders:

Future-Focused: Leaders, on the other hand, are visionaries. They don’t just think about the next task; they think about the next year, the next big goal, and the direction in which they want to steer the team. Leaders inspire their teams to see beyond the present and work towards a shared vision for the future.

Managers Focus on Doing Tasks; Leaders Focus on Building People

Managers:

Task-Oriented: Managers are excellent at organizing and delegating tasks. They ensure that everyone knows what needs to be done and by when. Their role is to maintain productivity and keep the workflow efficient.

Leaders:

People-Oriented: Leaders focus on their team’s development. They see their role as not just to get tasks done but to build up the people doing those tasks. Leaders invest in their team’s growth, offering guidance, mentorship, and opportunities for personal and professional development.

Managers Focus on Mistakes; Leaders Notice Strengths

Managers:

Mistake-Focused: Managers spend time identifying and correcting mistakes. They aim for perfection and efficiency, and when things go wrong, they focus on what needs to be fixed.

Leaders:

Strength-Focused: Leaders understand that mistakes are part of the growth process. Instead of fixating on errors, they recognize and nurture their team’s strengths. By focusing on what their team members do well, leaders build confidence and encourage continuous improvement.

Managers Say “Do This”; Leaders Say “Let’s Go”

Managers:

Directive: Managers tend to give orders and expect their team to follow them. Their approach is more about ensuring that tasks are completed correctly and on time.

Leaders:

Collaborative: Leaders take a more inclusive approach. They don’t just tell their team what to do; they roll up their sleeves and work alongside them. Leaders lead by example and foster a sense of teamwork and unity, saying, “Let’s go” rather than “Do this.”

Managers Make the Business Go; Leaders Make the Business Grow

Managers:

Maintaining: Managers are essential for keeping the business running smoothly. They ensure that processes are followed, and the organization functions effectively.

Leaders:

Growing: Leaders push the boundaries and drive growth. They are constantly looking for new opportunities, innovative solutions, and ways to expand the business. Leaders inspire their teams to think bigger and strive for excellence, ultimately contributing to the business’s growth and success.

Are You Managing and Leading Your Team?

While managing is necessary for the daily operations of any business, true leadership is what propels a team and an organization forward. Reflect on your approach—are you merely managing your team, or are you truly leading them?

To elevate your impact, consider blending management with leadership. Focus on the future, build up your people, highlight their strengths, collaborate, and drive growth. By doing so, you’ll not only manage your team but lead them to new heights.