What is Leadership?
Leadership is a “process whereby an individual influences a group of individuals to achieve a common goal” (Northouse 2007). Effective leadership guides and motivates “by unleashing the power and potential of people and organizations for the greater good” (Blanchard 2012).
“Leadership is intentional influence.”— Michael McKinney
What Does Leadership Mean for You? – On the spot question posed to passers-by on Lancaster University Campus
Leadership vs. Management
“Lead and inspire people. Don’t try to manage and manipulate people. Inventories can be managed but people must be lead.”— Ross Perot
Leadership and Management both involve influencing people and working toward a common goal. However, they differ in that leaders lead people and managers manage tasks. The chart below outlines some of the differences in their competencies:
| Management Produces Order & Consistency | Leadership Produces Change & Movement |
| • Planning and Budgeting
• Establishing agendas • Setting timetables • Allocating resources |
• Establishing Direction
• Creating a vision • Clarifying the big picture • Setting strategies |
| • Organizing and Staffing
• Provide structure • Making job placements • Establishing rules and procedures |
• Aligning People
• Communicating goals • Seeking commitment • Building teams and coalitions |
| • Controlling and Problem Solving
• Developing incentives • Generating creative solutions • Taking corrective action |
• Motivating and Inspiring
• Inspiring and energize • Empowering subordinates • Satisfying unmet needs |
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Source: Northouse, 2007, p. 10. |
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Click on one of the links below for a more in-depth discussion and resources available on the following Leadership areas:
References
The Ken Blanchard Companies. (2012). Retrieved August 17, 2012, from The Ken Blanchard Companies: http://www.kenblanchard.com/
Northouse, G. (2007) Leadership Theory and Practice. (3rd ed.) Thousand Oak, London, New Delhe, Sage Publications, Inc.
Management Tools 