Manager vs Leader: Key Differences

Aspect	Manager	Leader
Definition	Plans, organizes, and coordinates resources to achieve goals.	Inspires, motivates, and guides people toward a shared vision.
Focus	Processes, systems, tasks.	People, vision, change.
Approach	Administers and maintains.	Innovates and develops.
Decision-making	Rules, policies, procedures.	Vision, creativity, empowerment.
Orientation	Short-term, operational.	Long-term, strategic.
Motivation method	Authority and position.	Influence, trust, inspiration.
Risk attitude	Avoids risk; prefers stability.	Takes calculated risks.
Role in change	Implements change handed down.	Drives and champions change.
Power source	Formal hierarchy/role.	Credibility, expertise, relationships.

Note: Great managers can be strong leaders, and great leaders often use solid management practices. The best performers blend both.