Managing vs. Leading

For us to better understand the subtle differences between managing and leading, Warren Bennis offers a comparison for consideration.  The piece is not gender neutral, however offers insight.

In his 1989 book “On Becoming a Leader,” Bennis composed a list of the differences:

Some contend that the manager’s job is to plan, organize and coordinate. The leader’s job is to inspire and motivate.

·       The manager administers; the leader innovates.

·       The manager is a copy; the leader is an original.

·       The manager maintains; the leader develops.

·       The manager focuses on systems and structure; the leader focuses on people.

·       The manager relies on control; the leader inspires trust.

·       The manager has a short-range view; the leader has a long-range perspective.

·       The manager asks how and when; the leader asks what and why.

·       The manager has his or her eye always on the bottom line; the leader’s eye is on the horizon.

·       The manager imitates; the leader originates.

·       The manager accepts the status quo; the leader challenges it.

·       The manager is the classic good soldier; the leader is his or her own person.

·       The manager does things right; the leader does the right thing.

In many training sessions, we use this list to begin discussions on the differences.  

Remember, most people would prefer to be led, not managed.