While good leaders can be found throughout all levels of an organization, managers are limited to only a certain number of positions in the company. That isn’t to say that all managers are not leaders…nor that all leaders are not managers. In fact, many of the best leaders are actually managers who have found ways to succeed in both roles.
Management positions have been designed to function as doers and executers. They are tasked with implementing and completing any of a number of duties throughout the company. A manager, by definition, leads a staff of employees (except in the cast of honorary titles meant to recognize one’s position within the company). This staff largely does as they are told by the manager, due to his position of authority.
As previously mentioned, leaders rely on persuasion whereas managers are backed up by the authority of their position. While playing the authority card is not recommended in every circumstance, the ability to play it does alter the reality of the situation. Managers are entrusted with keeping projects within the timelines, within budget and are oftentimes called upon to work with multiple vendors. Managers who are able to inspire and persuade others rather than relying on their authority are far better off.