The 10 differences between a Boss and a Leader
Leaders and bosses exercise very different management styles.
In a previous article we talked about the 10 personality traits that every leader must have, today it is time to put on record the 10 differences between a boss and a leader. 10 differences between a boss and a leader.
Boss or Leader?
First, let's define both concepts. "Boss" is defined as the person who has authority or power over a group to direct their work or activities..
On the other hand, "Leader" is the person who heads and directs a group or social, political, religious, etc. movement.. In principle, the difference is clear. But on a day-to-day basis, there are many attitudes that can make a person fit the profile of a leader or a boss.
The 10 differences in the way of managing companies between a boss and a leader.
We propose to point out the ten most important factors within organizations, since if you occupy a relevant position in decision-making and manage a group of people, it is in your best interest to adopt a leadership position in order to motivate and unite forces in your organization.
1. The perception of your authority
For an ordinary boss, authority is a privilege granted by his or her position of command. For a good leader, on the other hand, authority is a privilege only if it is a useful tool for the organization.
The boss makes his own the maxim "I am the one in charge here".while the leader finds his inspiration in the phrase. "I can be useful here".. The boss spurs the group and the good leader stays in front, guides them and commits himself every day.
2. Imposing vs. convincing
The boss bases his influence on the authority that comes from the position he holds. The leader wins the sympathy and will of those around him. The boss asserts his position within the hierarchy, while the leader cultivates and nurtures his leadership on a daily basis.
The boss feels the need to impose his criteria, using long arguments; the leader convinces and exemplifies.The leader convinces and exemplifies, his arguments do not seek to banish others, but to build knowledge and a plan of action.
3. Fear vs. trust
The boss instills fear, fear, usually threatens, and his team is suspicious of him, they give him a good face when he is around but criticize him harshly when he is not present. The leader is a source of trust, empowers people, generates enthusiasm when working, stimulates the group by recognizing the good work and effort of its members.
The boss requires blind obedience, the leader seeks to make motivation permeate everyone.. If you are afraid of your superior, he/she is an ordinary boss, but if you value and appreciate him/her, your superior is a leader.
4. The management of problems
The boss wants to point the finger at the one who made the mistake.The boss wants to point the finger at the person who made the mistake; he implants the belief that he is looking for the guilty party. Thus, he scolds, punishes and shouts if something goes wrong, to warn the guilty party and the others.
The leader understands mistakes and calmly redirects the situation. He does not point out other people's mistakes or accuse anyone, but seeks to solve the problem and help the person who made the mistake to get back on his feet.
5. Technical organization vs. creative organization
The boss distributes tasks and orders, and remains supervising whether his orders are being followed to the letter. The leader stimulates, sets an example, works side by side with his collaborators, is coherent with what he thinks, and is not afraid of the other way around.He is coherent with what he thinks, what he says and what he does.
The boss makes tasks an obligation, but the leader knows how to look for motivation in each new project. The leader transmits a desire to live and to progress.
6. Orders vs. pedagogy
The boss knows how everything works, the leader knows how to teach each task, he knows how to teach. The former is suspicious of his secret that has led him to success, the latter decisively supervises people so that they can develop and even surpass him. the leader prepares them to reach their full potential..
7. The degree of personal closeness
The leader relates to his team in a depersonalized way, like checkers on a board. The leader knows all his collaborators personally, takes a genuine interest in their lives, does not use or objectify them, and does not use or objectify them.He does not use or objectify them. He is respectful of each person's personality and defends people regardless of their position in the hierarchy.
8. Closed vs. open and constantly developing schemes.
The boss says "do this", the leader says "let's do this".. The boss pursues stability, the leader promotes his collaborators through group work and the formation of other leaders. The leader is capable of integrating the sincere commitment of those around him, designs plans with clear and shared goals, and infects others with his hope and determination.
9. Delivering vs. leading
The boss arrives on time, but the leader always arrives first.. The boss waits for employees sitting in his chair, the leader goes out to welcome them. The leader always wants to maintain his presence as a guide for the group and inspires commitment, cordiality and loyalty. The boss is satisfied with an acceptable performance of his members, the leader wants to see beyond and wants his group to excel.
10. Power vs. inspiration
The boss defends his position of authority tooth and nail; the leader makes ordinary people feel extraordinary. The boss craves reverence, but the leader succeeds in engaging his team in a mission that allows them to Excel and transcend. The boss wants to maintain his privileges; the leader gives meaning and inspiration to his work, his life and the lives of those around him.
Bibliographical references:
- Landolfi, Hugo (2009). La esencia del liderazgo, Ediciones Dunken, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
- Showalter, M. J., and Mulholland, J. A. (1992): "Continuous Improvement Strategies for Service Organizations." Business Horizons.
(Updated at Apr 13 / 2024)