No time to read, listen here:

I’m asked this question frequently during my workshops and one-on-one coaching.

It’s incredible how many people think they’re leaders, who are in fact functioning managers and how many managers who are actually leaders in disguise.

But the real question is, what’s the difference?

A manager . . .

Gives direction, administers
Has subordinates
Holds authority
Tells you what to do
Has good ideas
Reacts to change, eyes on the bottom line
Tries to be a hero
Exercises power
Good soldier

A leader . . .

Asks questions
Has followers
Is motivational
Shows you how to do it
Innovates with team
Creates change, eyes on the horizon
Makes heroes
Develops team’s power
Is their own person

Take a look at each list; what ones can you change today?

When I teach leadership, I focus on four areas — communication, motivation, delegation, and education (learn more here). These four areas are the foundation of any successful leader. But during my workshops and coaching, I also sneak in a quiet fifth area — confidence.

Confidence plays a significant role in transforming a manager into a leader — it transforms that person from just a soldier doing their duty into a leader venturing out on their own, with their team, to transform their organization.

You need the confidence to trust yourself AND your team to make that a reality.

Too often, most managers fear taking a chance, bucking the system, or making their superiors angry. One of the central tenets of my coaching you to advance in your career is to “Ask forgiveness, not permission.”

That is a leader’s formula for success.