Leader vs. Boss Part 2: Transitioning Organizational Guidance Approach
In the contemporary landscape of organizational dynamics, the distinction between a leader and a boss is crucial in determining the success and culture of a workplace.
While many interchange the terms, they are distinctly different approaches to organizational guidance. You may need to transition your organizational guidance approach from boss to leader. Do you know which approach you tend to favor?
If you think you are a leader but operate as a boss, then your organization is missing out on the benefits of an effective leader, and you are missing out on the transformative impact you can have.
Leader vs. Boss – The Difference
In a previous post, Leader vs. Boss Part 1: Understanding Organizational Guidance, we explored the importance of understanding the difference between a leader and a boss. We also covered the key points of difference between the two approaches to organizational guidance. In this post, we will dive into the key steps to grow from a boss into a leader.
As a reminder, a boss is someone in a position of authority with the responsibility of managing others and their work. Their power comes from their hierarchical position and operate as an authoritarian. Conversely, a leader is someone who takes an organization from where it is towards shared goals through inspiration, motivation, and empowerment.
We must understand the difference between a leader and a boss because of the impact on employee engagement, retention, and business results.
In a nutshell, a leader inspires and motivates others to deliver results against shared objectives. Their power comes from the influence and respect others assign to them.
Leader vs. Boss – The Transition
For some selective organizations, there may be benefits to a boss-centric culture. However, if you are not in one of these organizations but operating as a boss, you can make the transition and have an even greater impact on your organization. Here’s how.
A sure sign of the transition from boss to leader is when a boss gives more autonomy to his team.
- The first step is to be self-aware of your style. Know whether you are operating as a boss or a leader. Visit Leader vs. Boss Part 1: Understanding Organizational Guidance to learn more about the approaches. Accept your findings.
- Be willing to change. Self-awareness with no action is like having gas in your vehicle but going nowhere. It’s not easy to switch from one habit to another, but the rewards of transitioning from a boss to a leader are worth it. Choose to do something about the results of your self-evaluation
- Focus on self-development. There are many resources you can use to develop and strengthen your leadership skills, starting with the resources provided by the Germain Empowerment blog.
- Understand your purpose. It’s not to manage a project, fly a plane, construct houses, or take care of patients. My purpose, as an example, is to change lives, one person at a time. Everything I do, I try to fit in that purpose. When you understand yours, your leadership skills will shine. Go here to get help in understanding your purpose.
- Develop your emotional intelligence. That’s your ability to sense and understand your emotions and those of others and channel them in the right direction.
- Build strong interpersonal connections with your direct reports. Understand their needs and aspirations. Empathize with them and be compassionate. Focus on their development and empowerment to bring their creativity to work.
- Create an environment where your employees feel valued, respected, and appreciated; an environment where teamwork thrives. That means, developing a culture of collaboration, shared leadership, and open communication. Also, take time to recognize and celebrate their achievements.
- Continuous professional Improvement. Invest in your continuous development. Seek feedback to assess your progress and effectiveness.
A sure sign of the transition from boss to leader is when a boss gives more autonomy to his team. This drives a domino effect. Employees’ confidence increases, they become more accountable, demonstrate a greater sense of ownership of the business, and results increase. This leads to a healthier culture where everyone wants to work.
While the terms boss and leader may seem interchangeable, their impacts are markedly different. As organizations strive for success and continuous growth in this increasingly competitive environment, one thing is clear: A focus on leadership rather than an authoritarian culture will result in a healthier and more productive workplace.
Empowered Leader Reflection
Are you a leader or a boss?
Would you mind sharing your perspectives below?
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