Being promoted to a management role is a huge accomplishment, but many professionals find the responsibility more challenging than they imagined. Being someone’s boss doesn’t necessarily mean you’re a good leader.

Effective leadership is increasingly essential in the workplace, as more and more employees leave otherwise excellent companies over one resolvable element – bad bosses. According to a study by GoodHire, 82% of all surveyed professionals would potentially quit their job because of a bad boss.

There are crucial differences between bosses and leaders. To effectively steer your team in the right direction, it’s crucial to analyze your leadership style.

What are the differences between a boss and a leader?

1.  Bosses command; leaders influence. A boss’s authority comes from their position. In contrast, a leader’s authority comes from their ability to influence others. Bosses enforce the rules of an organization, while leaders encourage others to think for themselves to achieve the desired outcome. You can grow your influence by caring for your team, listening to their thoughts and ideas, and sharing the ‘why’ behind the decisions and actions that you take.

2.  Bosses explain; leaders inspire. A boss ensures you understand your work, while a leader supports and guides you through it. Success takes passion; without the desire to complete tasks, workers won’t be as driven to give their best performances.

3.  Bosses discipline; leaders mentor. Bosses are more likely to use a reward-and-punishment system to discourage poor behavior, but great leaders understand that employees benefit from encouragement and mentorship. If an employee performs well in a specific line of work, that strength should be recognized and mastered. It’s essential to note each employee’s strengths and weaknesses and mentor them independently. Rather than attacking skill gaps, work to patch them by guiding employees through their shortcomings and building their confidence in new areas.

4.  Bosses delegate tasks; leaders delegate authority. A boss focuses on their department’s objectives and stringently follows protocol to achieve those goals. They think for the short term, delegate tasks to their subordinates and tend to micromanage. To the contrary, leaders seek to drive commitment by setting an example for others to follow and inspire others by encouraging development. They comfortably delegate authority and avoid micromanaging.

5.  Bosses are above the team; leaders are part of the team. Bosses view their team members as subordinates, while leaders let go of this hierarchical distinction and view their team members as equal contributors. To be a leader, it’s essential to facilitate positive relationships with your employees.

To be a good boss or leader, incorporate a few key strategies into your behavior.

  • Be thoughtful. Leaders who lead for impact think first of their followers. They know that if they are doing what is in the best interest of their followers, it will bring great results for the followers and the organization.
  • Communicate and listen. A listening leader will hear how to make an organization better through their team’s words. A leader who wants to be listened to should practice listening to their people.
  • Set clear expectations. Set fair, clear employee expectations and be consistent in your manners so your staff knows what they can expect from you. Frequent changes in focus and conflicting priorities will leave staff feeling anxious. However, effective communication and a clear goal will ensure that teams all pull in the same direction.

What are a team leader’s responsibilities?

Team leaders are responsible for the success of the whole team and the success of each team member. An effective team leader should understand each member’s strengths, weaknesses and goals, and utilize their talents accordingly. Focus on improving and seek feedback from your team about what you can do better. Most good leaders start out as bosses.

While it can be a strenuous journey from boss to true leader, the rewards are well worth the effort. Being a thoughtful leader can increase your team’s productivity, motivation and loyalty, and ensure your company’s success.

 

Reference:
Business News Daily (2023, April 28) Skye Schooley: Are You a True Leader or Just a Boss?