Manager and Leader - Research Paper Example

Leader and Manager Compare and Contrast Characteristics of a Manager and a Leader The Characteristics of a Manager Managershave an understanding of the company’s purpose and that of those working under them. They have skills for recruiting the suitable people for the job and for informing their employees what is expected of them. They can train new workers and nurture the existing ones. They ensure punctuality, performance, and proper compensation. They can also sack noncompliant employees when need arises (Bush, 2008).

The Characteristics of a LeaderLeaders are focused in a strategic manner. They are naturally visionary and have a sense of conviction and purpose. They have informed decision-making as well as magnetic or charismatic personalities. They are likable due to their genuine interest in others more than in outcomes (DuBrin, 2010).ComparisonManagers like doing things right whereas leaders like doing the right things. Managers are competent in following company protocol, enforcing rules, and ensuring employee performance owing to their position in the company.

In contrast, leaders lack formal authority. However, their power comes from the natural desire of people to follow them (Ruiz, Ruiz, & Martínez, 2010).2. Evaluate of whether one can be a good manager without being a good leader and vice versa.Being a good manager is not necessarily being a good leader and likewise, being a good leader is not necessarily being a good manager. Nevertheless, there exists an overlap between leadership and management skills. Best managers can decide to become more than administrators and become leaders.

Similarly, best leaders can decide to become more than visionaries and become managers.3. Personal RatingBased on the characteristics of a good leader and manager outlined above, I consider myself a good leader and less of a manager. I have a strong conviction of realigning my thought and decisions along the needs and attributes of the people around me. I find my orientation towards paying keen attention to what is done other that how it is as a big feature distinguishing myself as a leader. Nevertheless, the leadership position cannot be complete without management roles.

Therefore, it is not possible separate the two aspects since a leader must be good at management as well because appropriate decision affecting people must be founded on the right things as stipulated by established statutes.ReferencesBush, T. (2008). Leadership and Strategic Management in Education. New York: Sage Publications. DuBrin, A. J. (2010). Leadership: Research Findings, Practice, and Skills. Mason: South Western Cengage Learning. Ruiz, P., Ruiz, C. & Martínez, R. (2010). Improving the “Leader–Follower” Relationship: Top Manager or Supervisor?

The Ethical Leadership Trickle-Down Effect on Follower Job Response. Journal of Business Ethics, 99(4), 587-608.