Bosses and leaders are very different professionals: in addition to different attitudes and behaviors, the biggest difference between them is in the relationship with their teams.
To help you understand the difference between these two personalities, we created this post. Here, you will find information about the main characteristics of a boss and a true leader. Check out!
Awareness of possible errors
In the business world, the greater the risk, the greater the results. It is important to be aware that it is necessary to take risks: if it works, great, if it doesn't, it served as learning and experience.
Therefore, the leader knows that it is necessary to take the risk and also knows that there is a possibility that it will not work. Even more: the leader also knows how to recognize his mistakes, unlike the boss, who is that figure who always believes to be right and who prefers not to take risks to avoid making any mistakes.
Empathy with employees
One characteristic that shows a big difference between boss and leader is empathy, which is the ability to put yourself in other people's shoes.
A real leader knows that he needs to know the professionals he leads and, for that, it is essential to be able to put himself in the shoes of his followers. This, of course, does not mean that the leader has to agree with everything or always give in, but if he puts himself in the other person's shoes, he will be able to argue with him.
Humbleness to be respected
The boss does not usually recognize the importance of everyone in his company, but the leader does. It is essential to be humble when dealing with anyone and recognize the importance of each person - the opposite of this is arrogance.
The boss tends to be feared by the team, while the leader is respected. Fearful people tend to be more incapable, and this decreases the company's productivity. Therefore, if you want a productive team, do not seek to be feared, seek to be respected and remember: respect is achieved with humbleness.
Wisdom to deal with professionals
One difference between boss and leader is that the boss wants to treat all his employees equally. This seems fair at first, but it is not. He who knows how to differentiate each member of the team can find and unfold the potential of each one, generating more results for the company.
The leader knows how to identify each one's needs to work on them. The leader recognizes that not all of his employees have the same experience or training. Some are very sure of themselves, others are not. Therefore, treating everyone equally is unfair.
Constant learning process
Just because you have reached the top does not mean that you have to stop in time. The boss believes he already knows everything, the leader recognizes that there is always more to learn.
The one in charge, at the head of the team, must always keep the group up to date. Therefore, a leader knows that it is always necessary to study, research and innovate. This only generates benefits for the team, for the company and for the professional himself, who continues to pursue success.
Did you understand the difference between boss and leader? If you want to become a real leader and promote great changes in your team and the way they work, check out more tips at IMV's "High-Performance Leadership" Workshop! Do you have any further information on the subject that you would like to share with us? Leave a comment!