Turning Management into Leadership

Steve Jobs – “Management is about persuading people to do things they do not want to do, while leadership is inspiring people to do things they never thought they could.”

How would your organization respond if asked to describe the difference between management and leadership? Is there a difference? The answer is yes, and Steve Jobs understood how to utilize both to keep all employees engaged and inspired.

Many employees picture management and leadership with movie characters such as Bill Lumbergh and William Wallace. Do you remember Bill Lumbergh from the movie “Office Space”? He was constantly micro-managing and annoying employees. However, William Wallace in the movie “Braveheart” inspired and assisted his countrymen in fighting for their freedom. Making him a great example of leadership.

Here are 3 ways to convert management into leadership:

1. Start asking “what” and “why”. By asking more in-depth questions, managers:

· Gain a better understanding of employees, interests, systems and processes.

· Shows employees you want and value their input.

· Encourages strategic thinking and empowerment

2. Stay in the front lines of battle. Never ask someone to do something you yourself aren’t willing to do. Being in the trenches with others:

· Earns the respect of employees.

· Encourages loyalty.

· Builds better working relationship.

3. Challenge the status quo. Change your organization for the good of everyone including customers:

· Keep everyone moving forward.

· Removes the tendency to become complacent.

· Be respectful of employees and team members.

Would you rather be Bill Lumbergh or William Wallace? Start coloring outside the lines by empowering management within your organization to be great leaders. Get started today!