Management vs leadership qualities

Abstract:

Management and leadership are two distinct but complementary approaches to guiding organizations towards success. There are overlaps between the two roles, but there are quite some differences between their qualities. Management focuses on “doing things right”, while leadership focuses on “doing the right things”. Both are important in effective and successful organization; however, balance is key.

Management qualities include planning and organizing, control, rule-following, technical knowledge and being risk-averse. Good management tends to lead to good structure, predictability, and control over projects and the organization. However, since the goal for managers is to do the right things, a common consequence is a too rigid approach, which might lead to resistance to change and lack of inspiration.

Leadership qualities include to be a visionary, have emotional intelligence, being able to influence people, risk-taking, and be adaptable. Good leadership can lead to an inspiring and creative work environment where the vision for the future is clear for others. On the other side, there can easily be lack of structure, unnecessary risk-taking, and sometimes difficulties in execution of their vision.

Even if there are differences between characteristic qualities for management and leadership, there are a common set of skills both managers and leaders should have to be able to guide their organization in the right direction. They should have good communication skills, be strategic thinkers, goal-oriented, problem-solvers, team-builders and have empathy.

Introduction

Definition of management and leadership

Project management can be defined as “…”, while leadership can be defined as “…”.

Purpose of article

This article will delve into the qualities of project management and leadership, discussing their similarities, differences, strengths, and weaknesses. Examples are provided to demonstrate how these qualities can be applied to achieve business success. By gaining a better understanding of project management and leadership qualities, you will be better equipped to navigate and lead your teams to achieve desired results.

Project management qualities

The fundamental qualities of project management

Planning and organizing

Control

Rule-following

Technical knowledge

Risk-aversion

Strengths of management

Structure

Predictability

Control

Weaknesses of management

Bureaucracy

Resistance to change

Lack of inspiration

Leadership qualities

The fundamental qualities of leadership

Vision

Emotional intelligence

Influence

Risk-taking

Adaptability

Strengths of leadership

Inspiration

Creativity

Vision

Weaknesses of leadership

Risk-taking

Lack of structure

Difficulty in executing

References

Chapter 5: Managing the organization: managerial functions, tasks, processes and competences “Organising and Managing Work”, Harlow: Pearson, 2006

John P. Kotter 2001: What Do Leaders Really Do?