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
First, let’s define both concepts. “Boss” is defined as the person who has authority or power over a group to direct its work or activities
Instead, “Leader” is that person who heads and directs a social, political, religious group or movement, etc In principle, the difference is clear. But on a day-to-day basis, there are many attitudes that can make a person fit into the profile of a leader, or a boss.
The 10 differences in the way of running companies between a boss and a leader
We propose to point out the ten most important factors within organizations, since if you hold a relevant position in decision-making and lead a human group, it is in your best interest to adopt a leadership position, to be able to motivate and join forces in your organization. .
1. The perception of your authority
For a typical boss, authority is a privilege granted by his position of command. For a good leader, however, authority is a privilege only if it is a useful tool for the organization.
The boss endorses the maxim of “I am the one in charge here” ; while the leader finds inspiration from him in the phrase “I can be useful here” The boss spurs the group on and the good leader stays in front, guides them and is committed day to day.
2. Impose vs convince
The boss bases his influence on the authority that comes from the position he holds. The leader gains the sympathy and will of those around him. The boss asserts his position within the hierarchy, while the leader cultivates and nurtures 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 rather to build knowledge and an action plan.
3. Fear vs trust
The boss instils fear, fear, he usually threatens, and his team is suspicious of him, they give him a good face when he is around but they harshly criticize him when he is not present. The leader is a source of confidence, empowers people, generates enthusiasm when he works, stimulates the group by recognizing the good work and effort of its members.
The boss requires blind obedience, the leader seeks motivation to permeate everyone If you are afraid of your superior, he is an ordinary boss, if on the other hand you value and appreciate him, your superior is a leader.
4. Problem management
The boss wants to point out who made the mistake ; implants the belief of looking for culprits. In this way, he scolds, punishes and yells if something goes wrong, to warn the culprit and other people.
The leader knows how to understand mistakes and calmly reorients the situation. He is not in charge of pointing out other people’s mistakes or accusing anyone, but rather he seeks to solve the problem and help those who have committed it to get back on their feet.
5. Technical organization vs creative organization
The boss distributes tasks and orders, and monitors whether his orders are being strictly followed. The leader stimulates, provides an example, works side by side with his collaborators is consistent with what he thinks, what he says and what he does.
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 progress.
6. Orders vs pedagogy
The boss knows how everything works, the leader knows how to teach each task, he knows how to teach. The first is suspicious of his secret that has led him to success, the second decisively protects people so that they can develop and even surpass him. The boss organizes 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 pieces on a board. The leader knows all his collaborators personally and is genuinely interested in their lives , does not use them or objectify them. He is respectful of each person’s personality, defending people regardless of their position in the hierarchy.
8. Closed schemes vs open and constantly developing schemes
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 training of other leaders. The leader is capable of integrating the sincere commitment of those around him, designs plans with clear and shared purposes, and infects others with his hope and determination.
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 guide of the group and inspires commitment, cordiality and loyalty. The boss is satisfied with an acceptable performance of his members, the leader wants to see further and wants his group to excel.
10. Power vs inspiration
The boss defends his position of authority tooth and nail; The leader makes ordinary people feel extraordinary. The boss craves reverence, but the leader manages to engage his team in a mission that allows them to improve and transcend. The boss wants to maintain his privileges; The leader gives meaning and inspiration to his work, his life and the lives of those around him
