We frequently hear its better to “lead” a team than “manage” one. Can you provide tangible examples of how a Team Leader differs from a Team Manager?
We frequently hear its better to “lead” a team than “manage” one. Can you provide tangible examples of how a Team Leader differs from a Team Manager?
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"Managing" has been associated with a "command and control" style, where managers tell people what to do. This leadership style is now outdated in today's workplace, and has been replaced by "leadership." Leadership is not necessarily a position or a title anymore. It’s about influencing others to follow you.
Get to know the people you want to influence and build relationships. Increase your awareness, connect with them. What do they enjoy and value in their work? What inspires them, gives them a sense of purpose, a sense of accomplishment? Give them the tools, guidance, and time to succeed in their jobs. Put in the effort to bring out the best in people. Lead by example.
When I think of a Leader, I think of someone who will get in the trenches with their employees when the going gets tough. Rather than point and command from the hillside, they're on the front lines leading the charge. In practice this means a willingness to take on some of the team's tasks to lighten the workload, such as if a member is away on vacation or overly busy. The leader isn't afraid or above doing the tasks that are below the "job description" of the manager in order to further the entire team.
Also, I really think of a leader as working up the hierarchy on behalf of the team below them rather than driving messages given from above down to their subordinates. Good ones act as buffers between Sr and Jr colleagues and know when to filter or change the lens of information flowing between the two ends.