Interesting question! What 'is' leadership? We're often asked, "What's the difference between a manager and leader?

Managers don't necessarily manage people. They could be managing things. If they 'do' manage people they could also be leaders, but most times not.

Someone managing people, but not leading them, will manage processes and procedures. These are the type of managers that 'tell' people what to do and expect results. Often the environment is de-motivational and recognition comes in the form of negative reinforcement, or recognition when you make a mistake or fail.

Here's an example of negative reinforcement: "Your job's on the line if that report's not on my desk by this evening."

Another example: "If you want to see another promotion, you'd better get your finger out."

It's easy to find fault with people. The western world is, on average, 85% negative in the thoughts that we think, and the expressions that we say. Finding things 'right' with people is much more difficult and challenges our emotional intelligence.

Leadership is the role of inspiring people to follow you. Leadership is inspiring people to 'want' to perform at their best for you.

Great leaders in business inspire people to want to give their best performance. The way that we command great leadership, is in the examples we lead with:

These are by no means exhaustive. A manager may have some of these qualities, but often has very few.

We have to go back through history to understand why. Managers and indeed many leaders gained their position through being dominant and fearful. Managers became dictatorial: "Do as I say. Not as I do."

As time's gone by, more legislation has developed in the workplace; social benefits have increased and people have become less frightened of losing their job. The dictatorial manager is fading fast. People won't tolerate being led by 'the rod'.

We're now in a position where people want recognition for doing what's 'expected' of them; not just for exceeding our expectations. We have to lead in the form of 'management by wandering about', catching people doing things right; recognising people for doing things right...in front of others. We have to work harder, handling people's emotions; recognising different behaviours and attitudes.

We have to be non-judgemental with people and transparent with our actions.

We have to write, not merely to be understood; but so we cannot possibly be misunderstood.

We have to show confidence and assertiveness; enthusiasm and passion; smile and laugh; have a great sense of humour; even when we're at our lowest ebb.

When you can master this; and then some; your a great leader.

Glenn Harrison

Author/Coach/Trainer/Motivational Speaker
Certified Acredited Behavioural Analyst

Glenn Harrison is available as a world-wide, international motivational speaker to give a hilarious, educational speech on Behavioural differences; Motivation; Body Language; Sales; Teamwork and Self-development.

We train all over the world; at no additional cost other than economy travel and overnight expenses.