I’d like you to meet some people that I know.
First, meet BOSS. Boss has got it all going on (or so he thinks). He knows everything, has done everything and pretty much gets it right every time. Boss gets results. Sure, some people get trodden on on the way to success, but hey, that’s inevitable, right? Boss uses his people as the way to get things done. In reality, Boss’ people are intimidated by him, some are even scared. What Boss’ actions are really saying is ‘it’s all about me’.
Next, meet MANAGER. Manager is efficiency personified. KPIs rule. She drives her people to achieve the numbers and as long as they do, she leaves them alone. Manager is big on systems and procedures and makes sure that everyone follows them to the letter. If you ask Manager’s people how they feel they will tell you they feel stagnant and abandoned. They don’t feel like they are growing. Manager is all about the numbers.
Finally, meet LEADER. Leader knows that the biggest responsibility they have is to grow and develop their people, so ultimately, everyone wins. Leader cares about their people and lets them know it. Leader has a vision and involves their people in it. Leader is authentic and honest, even if it means making hard decisions. They go for respect first and like second. Leader’s people respond positively and are highly engaged. They lift their performance because they are inspired by Leader. With Leader, it’s all about the people.
The problem is not that there are too many bosses, in fact they are almost a thing of the past. The big problem is that too many of us are choosing managing over leading. Managing is not enough, we need to lead. We’d be happy to help you understand the difference and how to grow as a leader.