National Boss's Day, another "Hallmark moment", gives me the chance to expound on the difference between leadership and managership. It's pretty simple, really. Think of the really effective presidents we've elected in this country. And think of the equally effective bosses you've worked for. The parallels are many, but the most important one for me is this: a great leader wants the job because he or she has a burning need to see that something gets accomplished. To get something done. These people can look you straight in the eye and tell you precisely what that is. They want to DO something. All those other guys and gals? They want the job because they think it's their career destiny to have it. They want it on the old resume. They want the trappings. They want influence for the sake of being influential. They want the power as an accessory, not a tool. They want the job because they want to BE something.
So, there you have it. Wanting to DO something = good boss. Wanting to BE something = not so good. Consider the current crop of presidential candidates. Which ones would you put in which category?
Comment Preview