Is being a leader more important?
Which is more important, a manager or a leader?
As was outlined in the course and from personal experience it is clear to see that both managers and leaders are important to the success of an organization. One thing I did enjoy was the reading of job descriptions and the self assessments which imposed on me the importance of not only knowing the difference between a manager and a leader but also knowing based on the expectations of your superiors (or the job description) which characteristics you should emphasize.
Maple, Very true. We agree, and thank you for posting.
Elizabeth Wheeler
I believe it's very difficult to be in a leadership role without wearing both hats at any given time. These skills are interchangeable depending on the situation. For example, at the end of each month, I review the department performance goals, and if a program doesn't meet its goals, I find myself leading and managing the team which both of these functions are major in the success of the department.
Absolutely, Caryn!
Both managers and leaders are vital to any organization. I'm curious...do you think it's possible for one person to fill both roles?
Dr. Jean Norris
Both are equally important. The leader provides the inspiration, direction and focus. The Manager provides the details of how to get their and accomplish the outcome. They are both vital and important to the success of a business.
I think being both a manager and leader is equally as important. I view myself as a leader of my team and a manager of the processes that drive the team. I don't manage people, I manage processes.It is important that I lead my team to their monthly goals and not drive them there. It's all about motivation and as was said earlier in the lesson, influence.
Yanely,
Nicely put! Thank you for posting!
Elizabeth Wheeler
Both have a difference since one administers an the other innovates, but it is very important to know how to implement both at the same time as manager for the successful of the Institution.
Management functions can provide leadership and leadership activities can contribute to managing.
Magdali,
Good observation! It's a wonderful thing when you have a manager who is also an extraordinary leader. Thank you for posting!
Dr. Jean Norris
The organization needs each other. Sometimes the great manager and extraordinary leader come in one package.
L., We agree! Nicely put. Thank you for posting!
Dr. Jean Norris
One is not more important than the other as without motivation and inspiration people are driven and driven people are not effective. However without organization and direction nothing productive happens. The key is to know when to use each skill.
Liza, We agree! Thank you for sharing!
Elizabeth Wheeler
I believe both are important. Too often I see strong leaders who have visionary ideas but when it comes to execution of the plan, they come up short. It's important to be able to come up with the visionary ideas and motivate and inspire team members to work for a common goal but you must also be able to delegate the pieces of the vision that will get you to the end goal.
Quinn,
Thank you for posting. Do you think there are times when it's important to manage?
Elizabeth Wheeler
I believe Leaders are more important. It is my belief that anyone can be taught to enforce policies!
Brian, Interesting! Do you feel that being a leader is more important than a manager?
Dr. Jean Norris
The importance of being an effective leader is mostly derived by results. Whether leading a team, big or small, an effective leader is one who influences and motivates toward tangible goals. Typically, if a leader is able to repeat this cycle of success, the importance of being a good leader will usually include an effective management style.
Mary, Agreed! Thank you for sharing.
Dr. Jean Norris
