The difference between a boss and a leader is how they are towards their peers and colleagues.  A boss will simply just manage, they’ll tell you what to do and how to do it then let you get on with it. A leader on the other hand will motivate you and guide you, a leader will have the mindset of growing and helping others learn new skills.

A leader will motivate you – A boss will keep a watchful eye on you:

A leader understands the importance of motivation and inspiration in driving individuals to achieve their best. They take the time to understand their team members’ strengths, weaknesses, and aspirations, and they provide encouragement and support to help them reach their goals.

On the other hand, a boss may focus more on surveillance and control, keeping a close watch on employees to ensure they are meeting expectations without necessarily understanding or addressing their individual motivations or needs.

 

A leader likes to collaborate – A boss will dictate and delegate:

A leader recognises the value of collaboration and teamwork in achieving common goals. They foster an environment where ideas are shared, and decisions are made collectively. They encourage open communication and seek input from team members to find the best solutions.

On the other hand, a boss may adopt a more authoritarian approach, making decisions unilaterally and simply assigning tasks to subordinates without asking for their input or involving them in the decision-making process.

 

A leader takes the blame – A boss will blame their colleagues:

A leader accepts responsibility for both the successes and failures of their team. They understand that mistakes are inevitable, but they see them as opportunities for growth and learning. They prioritise accountability and lead by example, taking ownership of any setbacks that occur.

In contrast, a boss may resort to accusing or shifting blame onto others when things go wrong. They may be more concerned with protecting their own reputation or avoiding consequences rather than fostering a culture of accountability within the team.

 

A leader looks for long-term solutions – A boss will look for quick and easy fixes:

A leader takes a strategic approach to problem-solving, considering the long-term implications of their decisions. They prioritise sustainable solutions that address the root causes of problems and create lasting positive change.

On the other hand, a boss may prioritise short-term results or immediate fixes that provide temporary relief without necessarily addressing underlying issues or considering the long-term consequences of their actions.

 

A leader is driven by values – A boss is driven by numbers:

A leader operates from a foundation of core values and principles that guide their actions and decisions. They prioritise integrity, fairness, and ethical conduct in all aspects of their leadership.

In contrast, a boss may be more focused on achieving numerical targets or financial goals without considering the broader ethical or social implications of their actions. They may prioritise results over principles, leading to decisions that compromise integrity or undermine trust.

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