Leader vs Manager, The Communication Influence
The primary difference between a leader and a manager is that a manager typically focuses on day-to-day operations, planning, organizing, and controlling resources to achieve specific goals within an organization. Leaders, on the other hand, focus on inspiring and motivating people towards a shared vision, driving change, and developing a positive organizational culture. Some key leadership skills, demonstrated by example, include communication, influence, coaching, empathy, and strategic thinking.
Entertainers may be some of the early pioneers in leading by example. They carry their art with them every day and perform at their best, or not at all. Imagine a magician with unimpressive tricks, a comedian with unfunny jokes, or a singer who can't sing. Or, by contrast, watch a performer smash their audition with a rendition of a song that is performed even better than the original artist. An athlete who wins a state championship is an inspiration to their team, family, and friends.
But are these entertainers really leaders or just showmen? Let's break it down. The lead-by-example features include integrity, active involvement, accountability, trust, and empowerment. At the same time, the showman leverages charisma, stage presence, storytelling, and emotional connections to captivate the audience. Both of these characteristics are tools for leadership and can be used effectively. A key difference between the two is that leading by example is about substance—demonstrating desired behaviors through actions —while a showperson can sometimes focus more on style and performance.
Dr. Sanjiv Chopra describes 10 key principles of all great leaders in his book, "Leadership by Example1." He uses experience and stories to provide practical insights into each principle. In the introduction, he describes a flock of migrating birds flying in a V formation. It is a beautiful sight. Each bird keeps its pace behind the leader, twisting and turning through the air as the leader does. Following is much easier. Scientists have proven that birds in the formation expend much less energy than the leader. But what few people realize is that the formation has no single leader. One bird flies to the point until it tires, then drops back, to be replaced by another. During the long migration, most of the birds have both the opportunity and the responsibility to become the leader of the formation. Chopra states, "True leaders simply move forward doing what they believe is correct and what resonates for them, often without knowing or even being concerned if anyone is following.
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