Leadership Versus Management

Leadership vs Management Comparison

There are some key differences between what leaders do and what managers do. The table below lists some of these distinctions.

As you can see, there is a clear difference between leadership and management.

Management vs Leadership in Project Management

Leadership versus Management

In the Harvard Business Review article "What Leaders Really Do" by John Kotter, he effectively summarizes this difference by stating that management is about coping with complexity while leadership is about coping with change.

Good management enables you to handle complexity. This is done by...

• Setting clear objectives
• Thorough planning
• Developing standard procedures and processes
• Monitoring results against plans
• Taking corrective actions as needed

These are all basic project management skills. In fact, one of the main purposes of project management is to reduce the risk of complexity to allow for a greater chance of a successful outcome.

Leadership enables you to handle change effectively. This is done by...

• Setting the project direction
• Aligning people to the new direction
• Building a cohesive team
• Motivating the team
• Enabling the team

Leadership is more important in projects that have higher levels of uncertainty or ambiguity.

For example, projects that are in fast-changing markets, on the bleeding edge of technology, or that have powerful and challenging stakeholders will require strong leadership capabilities in the project manager.

In Conclusion...

So, back to the original question, leadership versus management, which is more important when it comes to managing projects successfully?

The truth is, this really isn't a leader vs manager decision.

You need to have capabilities in both areas to be an effective project manager...

• First, make sure you have a solid grasp of basic project management skills. This will provide the foundation for managing projects successfully.
• Second, begin to develop and improve your leadership and other interpersonal skills. This is what will take our management results and career to the next level.

Related Articles About Leadership Versus Management

What Makes a Good Leader? Key Leadership Characteristics for Project Managers

Understanding what makes a good leader is important if you want to be a successful Project Manager. Learn the two key characteristics of a good leader.

Situational Leadership Theory: A Model for Project Managers

Situational leadership theory is a powerful model that project managers can use to be successful. Learn how you can determine the most effective situational leadership style to use for your situation.

Situational Leadership Model: Applying the Theory to Project Management

The Situational Leadership Model provides guidance on what type of leadership style to use and when it should be used. Learn how you can influence people you don't have direct authority over.

Do You Want More Project Management Tips?

Subscribe to Project Success Tips, my FREE Project Management Newsletter where I share tips and techniques that you can use to get your Project Management Career off to a great start.

As a BONUS for signing up, you'll receive access to my Subscribers Only Download Page!  This is where you can download my "Become A Project Manager Checklist" and other project management templates.

Don't wait...