Becoming a Great Manager vs. Becoming a Great Leader

Management is very different from leadership, but there are benefits to developing skills in both areas. When I think of managing others, I think of monitoring, measuring, and sometimes correcting employee performance. On the other hand, when I think of leading others, I think of inspiring greatness, bringing out the best in people, and setting an example both personally and professionally. Leaders often make great managers, but managers do not necessarily make great leaders.

When someone takes a leadership role, their purpose is to guide others in the right direction and help them overcome obstacles. They influence those around them, but they do not try to control them. A great leader inspires others to act in a meaningful way, and they encourage them to want to become the best version of themselves. 

Someone in a management position will establish rules, processes, and systems of accountability for doing things the right way. They maintain order within the organization, and they regulate the division of responsibilities. An effective manager knows how to correct behaviors and get things done properly. 

Peter Drucker once said, “Management is doing things right, whereas leadership is doing the right things.” That means that managers focus on how things are done, and leaders focus on what things are done, and in what manner, to lead the organization to success. When you develop your managerial and your leadership skills, you create the highest likelihood of positive outcomes.

The greatest thing you can do for yourself and your organization is continuously develop your mind. This can be accomplished by reading business books, practicing problem solving, attending various trainings, or doing anything that pushes you to expand your knowledge and expertise. If you want to become a great manager and a great leader, you have to step out of your comfort zone and focus on your personal growth.

-Meghan Slaughter