#33 Traits of a Leader

1) Leaders breathe the vision

Leaders do not only communicate the vision but also lives the vision. Steve Job was known for his appetite for innovation. His hunger for innovation has made Apple where they are today. Why Samsung still find it difficult to compete against Apple despite being the number 1 most innovative company. Simple! They lack the leadership that Steve Jobs brings to Apple. The whole innovative ecosystem and culture that Steve Jobs brings contributes the competitive edge.

2) Leaders make tough calls

Howard Schultz closed down 10 000 stores in the United States to stay in line with the purpose of the existence of Starbucks. These Companies were soaring in revenue but it was growing too fast and slowly they were losing their identity. However, Schultz stayed true to himself and did not let profit get into the way.

3) Leaders develop trust among its people

The best indicator on whether you are made to be a good leader is whether your people asked you out for a “teh tarik” to discuss about their performance. They find every chance they have to discuss on their development. This is an indication that they trust you as someone who can make a difference in their life.

4) Leaders encourage risk taking and celebrate success

For every success, great leaders do not take the credit himself but shares it with its people. Even when things go wrong, leaders take responsibility and strive to learn from failure.

5) Leaders look beyond numbers

Managers tend to achieve budgets and earn big bucks for the company. However, leaders look beyond numbers. Leaders empower its people and push forward its people. They build its people through a common vision and objective beyond profits.

6) Leaders balance short term goals with long term vision

It is so easy to succeed in the short term. Just keep squeezing. It is also easy to succeed in the long term. Just keep dreaming. However, great leaders balance short term profits with long term vision.

Photo taken from: http://kfoto941.smugmug.com/People/People/

#32 Difference Between a Manager and a Leader

The rate of change in this world has prompted the need for more leadership in managerial roles. Thus, there are many misconceptions on the different roles of managers and leaders. One must clearly distinguish between these two roles as confusion will lead to not being able to adapt to changes. Essentially, the role of the manager includes setting plans and budgets for the direction of the company. In contrast, the leader is the visionary and sets the path of the company. In times of rapid change, managers may be too into exercising its managerial capability where a leadership role would be a better option. Managers may not be aware to look further for possibilities rather than current capabilities. This may not be the case in times of maturity where a managerial role may be more appropriate. Manager tends to be reactive to changes but leaders are proactive in making changes.

Different roles play different part on its people. Managerial role focuses on planning and control. In fact, most management books would define a managerial role as planning, organizing, leading and controlling. This is in the context of status quo. However, leadership role involves inspiring its people to look beyond their capabilities and potential. They are the ones that create new ideas and paths for the company. This often involves unlearning the past and crafting a new future. It goes beyond the organisational hierarchy. They ride the waves of change and often bring along people with them.

“Managerial and leadership roles should not be seen in separation. Different roles should be clearly distinguished and to be embrace at different times.”

Photo taken from: http://lifeattwenty3.blogspot.com/2011_08_01_archive.html