In Leadership (2018), Northouse defines leadership as “a process whereby an individual influences a group of individuals to achieve a common goal” (p. 5). He coins this definition by incorporating five components including influence, process, power, group context, and goal attainment.
Theoretically, if a leader does not have any followers, then they are not leading anyone. Evidently, leadership and followers are not mutually exclusive. In addition, if a leader cannot influence and motivate the group and their actions, there will not be unification towards the leader’s vision. Therefore, change and movement will not be produced (Northouse, 2018: p. 12).
I like the definition that Northouse used because it illustrates the stark differences between leadership and management. Management is authoritative. It focuses primarily on organizing, planning, and controlling others to achieve a specific outcome (Northouse, 2018: p. 12). In contrast, with leadership, followers choose to follow because they believe in the leader and the leader’s vision to orchestrate change. I believe that leadership is about inspiration, whereas management is about power. Northouse also describes leadership as a process or an exchange: an interactive event between both parties (Northouse, 2018: p. 5). Conversely, management does not incorporate the dialogue and opinions of subordinates while making decisions. With management, it becomes more of an issue of power, order, and compliance.
Have you personally experienced the stark differences between a leader and a manager? How did it impact the work/change/difference that you produced?
Christina
Northouse, P. G. (2018). Leadership: theory and practice (Eighth ed.). Thousand Oaks. Sage Publications.
Christina,
You’ve painted an interesting contrast between leadership and management. If I’m understanding your argument correctly, you are asserting that leaders are benevolent people who want the best for those they lead, whereas managers control people’s actions without allowing them a voice.
However, Northouse (2016) paints a different contrast, arguing that, “Management is about seeking order and stability; leadership is about seeking adaptive and constructive change” (p. 13).
In the create.twu.ca/b121 blog, another learner in our course presents an argument that both leaders and managers are necessary in all organizations. Would you agree with that? Do you think managers can be benevolent, too?
— Leadership Prof