What’s Most Important – Leadership or Management?

There are some subtle differences in the approach of someone who considers themselves an organisational leader versus a manager.

Leaders in an organisation often take a big picture perspective with a long-term vision. While managers usually focus on projects and tasks, leaders tend to be more people-focused. They understand how people fit into the broader organisation, and are often passionate about developing talent and the next generation.

Managers tend to be more tactical – focused on specific systems, processes and controls. Leaders explore possibilities and new avenues for achieving goals. This doesn’t mean leaders completely reject structure; however, their vantage point allows reimagining systems to drive outcomes. In fact, innovative leaders are often intensely curious problem-solvers.

Herein lies a crucial difference – managers work contentedly within existing systems, while leaders shake things up, disrupting the status quo to facilitate unexpected outcomes. This cultivation of trust and autonomy allows teams to creatively self-organise around solutions.

Just as different leadership styles suit different teams, sometimes leaders must also manage operational execution. This hybrid approach is useful in hierarchical organisations requiring rigorous oversight. The combination of strategic leadership and tactical management can empower breaking from tradition while ensuring excellence.

Finding balance is more important than distinguishing between management and leadership. While management matters for completing projects, tracking performance and other competencies, looking beyond tactic oversight to the broader organisational strategy and staff potential is what defines impactful leaders.

We’ve worked with organisations within many sectors and understand exactly what it takes to succeed. If you’re in charge and you’d like some support, let’s chat.