Are you a leader or are a manager? Part 1

Before delving into the topic of Leadership Example, it is helpful to define leaders and leadership. Beginning with the root word of lead, Webster’s Dictionary defines lead as “to guide and conduct; to govern; to precede.” Also from Webster’s, a leader is defined as “one who leads; a guide; a captain; a head of party.” In contrast, the definition of manage is “to wield; to direct; to conduct or minister; to have under command; to treat with judgment.” Simply put: Managers manage processes, and leaders inspire and motivate others to accomplish goals.
Ask yourself, which definition applies to you?
Are you a leader or a manager?
Which would you rather be?

Great leaders lead by example, demonstrating their values through their actions. These leaders build relationships by mentoring and providing guidance, creating cohesive teams and earning the loyalty of their employees.

There are many mangers in organizations across the country, yet very few leaders. How does this happen? It happens because most organizations still use an old, outdated method for hiring into and promoting people from within the organization. That method is to choose people who are very good at what they do, without consideration as to whether or not they can motivate and inspire people.

Managers are tactical, hands-on personalities. There is no argument that managers can achieve results. However, the results are almost always short-term results. People will do what they are told for many reasons; some of those reasons are fear of losing one’s job, lack of education or experience making him or her unwilling to argue (even if they feel the manager is wrong), or apathy toward the company and its goals.

Leaders provide guidance. They motivate and inspire people to take action. In this way, leaders achieve long-term results through a productive, happy workforce. There are many strategies used by leaders to achieve these results. The behavior that has the most powerful impact on employees, customers and vendors is leading by example. ----- to be continue