The 10 differences between a boss and a leader
In a previous article we talked about the 10 personality traits that every leader should have, today is the time to record the 10 differences between a boss and a leader .
Boss or Leader?
First, let's define both concepts. "Boss" is defined as the person who has authority or power over a group to direct their work or activities .
Instead, "Leader" is the person who heads and directs a group or social, political, religious movement, etc. . In principle, the difference is clear. But in the day to day, many are the attitudes that can make a person enter the profile of leader, or boss. We propose to point out the ten most important factors within organizations, since if you occupy a relevant position in decision making and direct a human group, it is convenient to adopt a leadership position, to be able to motivate and join forces in your organization .
The 10 differences between a boss and a leader
1. The perception of his authority
For a boss to use, authority is a privilege granted by his command post. For a good leader, on the other hand, authority is a privilege only if it is a useful tool for the organization. The boss endorses the maxim of "I'm the one who commands here" ; while the leader finds his inspiration in the phrase "I can be useful here" . The leader spurs the group and the good leader stays in front, guides them and commits himself day by day.
2. Impose vs convince
The boss bases his influence on the authority that stems from the position he holds. The leader wins the sympathy and will of those around him. The leader makes use of his position within the hierarchy, while the leader cultivates and takes care of his leadership on a daily basis. The boss feels the need to impose his criteria , using long arguments; the leader convinces and exemplifies, his arguments do not seek to banish others, but build knowledge and plan of action.
3. Fear vs. trust
The boss instills fear, fear, often threatens, and his team is suspicious of him, they put a good face on him when he is close but they criticize him harshly when he is not present. The leader is a source of trust, empowers people, generates enthusiasm when working, encourages the group by recognizing the good work and effort of its members. The boss needs blind obedience, the leader wants the motivation to impregnate everyone . If you feel fear of your superior, is an ordinary boss, if in Cambo you value and appreciate, your superior is a leader.
4. Problem management
The boss wants to point out who has made the mistake ; Implants the belief of looking for guilty. In this way, abronca, punishes and screams if something does not go well, to warn the guilty and the rest of people. The leader knows how to understand mistakes and calmly redirects the situation. It is not responsible for pointing out the mistakes of others or accusing anyone, but seeks to solve the problem and help whoever has committed to get up.
5. Technical organization vs creative organization
The boss distributes the tasks and orders, and remains monitoring if his orders are being followed to the letter. The leader encourages, provides example, works side by side with his collaborators , is consistent with what you think, what you say and what you do. The boss makes tasks an obligation, but the leader knows how to look for motivation in each new project. The leader transmits the desire to live and to progress.
6. Orders vs pedagogy
The boss knows how everything works, the leader knows how to do the pedagogy of each task, he knows how to teach. The first one is suspicious of his secret that has led him to success, the second one decisively protects people so that they can develop and even overcome him. The boss organizes the production, but the leader prepares them to reach their full potential .
7. The degree of personal closeness
The boss relates to his team in a depersonalized way, like chips on a board. The leader personally knows all his collaborators, is genuinely interested in their lives , does not use them or reify them. It is respectful of each person's personality, defends people regardless of their position in the hierarchy.
8. Closed schemes vs open schemes and in constant development
The boss says "do this", the leader says "let's do this" . The boss pursues stability, the leader promotes his collaborators through group work and the formation of other leaders. The leader is able to integrate the sincere commitment of those around him, design plans with clear and shared purposes, infect others with their hope and determination.
9. Fulfill vs lead
The boss arrives on time, but the leader always arrives first . The boss waits for the collaborators sitting in his chair, the leader comes out to welcome them. The leader wants to always maintain his presence as a group leader and inspires commitment, cordiality and loyalty. The boss is satisfied with an acceptable performance of its members, the leader wants to see further and wants his group to stand out.
10. Power vs. inspiration
The boss defends with nails and teeth his position of authority; the leader makes normal people feel extraordinary. The boss craves reverence, but the leader manages to engage his team in a mission that allows them to overcome and transcend. The boss wants to maintain his privileges; the leader gives meaning and inspiration to his work, his life and that of those around him.
