Management vs. Leadership

1298 Words3 Pages

Management and Leadership are two concept that are often used interchangeably; however, they actually describe two different concepts. The power available to managers tends to arise from their position, whereas for leaders it often comes from within (Naylor, 2004). Capowski supports this theory suggesting that the contrasts between management and leadership are that one stems from the head and the other the heart (Capowski, 1994). However these roles differ, it remains that both have “the potential to influence behaviour of others” (Naylor, 2004). This essay will attempt to explain how someone may possess the ability to be one and not the other, or both, and how this influences their roles.

Leader not a manager

According to Boddy, leadership refers to the process of influencing the activities of others towards high levels of goal setting and achievement (Boddy, 2008). A good example where this can be supported is at a football team, for example Steven Gerrard (Liverpool FC team captain) where within his role he leads by example. The high level of performance he provides through training and working hard has a positive influence on his teammates, who in turn also train and work harder. This position as a teammate to the other players also allows him to gain a personal respect within the team. This contrasts greatly with the team manager who may find it difficult to interact and influence the players on their level. Comparing the two roles, it is apparent how a manager can struggle as players may feel overwhelmed, thus preventing the manager from gaining respect off the players.

There are many people who operate as leaders without their role ever being clearly established or defined in an organisation. Their sense of identity...

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