Analyzing the Leader-Manager Continuum

20+1 ways in which the DNA of a Leader differs from that of a Manager

KBS Sidhu, ex-IAS (Substack)
2 min readAug 17, 2018

Often, the terms “leader” and “manager” are used interchangeably. Although similar in broad connotation, not only are these words not synonymous with each other, they have fundamentally different attributes. Oxford dictionary defines manager as a person responsible for controlling or administering an organization or group of staff. On the other hand, leader is defined as the person who leads or commands a group, organization, or country.

Leaders may differ but they collaborate

We have tried to tabulate and compare the various qualities of the manager and a leader. Manager and leader are not two poles apart but every person is placed on a 0–100 continuum, with some of the qualities dominating. You may like to go through and see not only where you stand but also whether you agree with our views, if so to what extent.

Juxtaposing a Manager with a Leader
Leaders are guided by a Mission: Eliminate Hitler, in this case.

Managers keep the organizations moving but leaders really catapult them into the next stratosphere. So, where do you stand? Are there other qualities of the two that can be compared? Your feedback is most welcome.

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K.B.S. Sidhu. The author is an IAS officer of 1984 batch of Punjab cadre. The views expressed are his own.

He can be reached on kbs.sidhu@gmail.com or @kbssidhu1961 or https://www.facebook.com/kbs.sidhu

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