DISCERNING THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN MANAGERS AND LEADERS

FLORELYN T. CASTRO

Becoming a leader today is a big challenge to those who dream or aspire to be one. In our educational system nowadays, many changes are coming along the way. Educational leaders need to cope/ adapt to these changes which includes the change in curriculum and instruction.

There should be a thorough curriculum planning and wise decision making for better implementation and evaluation to be effective and to gain and have a quality output or result. One of the factors to be considered are the learners who are the heart and soul of an educational organization.

The task of an educational leaders not only focus in educating the mind with knowledge in the 3R’s, but to develop lifelong learners who are globally competitive, critical thinkers and who can be leaders with skills, competence and who possesses characteristics of a good leader by which he can empower, influence and bring change in our society.

Who then plays a vital role, is it the leader or the manager?

Leadership and management are different functions. Leadership is the ability to influence others to get things done. Leaders know the way, lead the way and follow the way. They influence , motivate and enable others to contribute toward the effectiveness and success of the organization where they belong. Leaders empower, innovate, develop and focuses on people.

They inspire others and create a trusting atmosphere in the workplace. Leaders have long range of view or vision of an organization. They take risks and challenges. Leaders ask the what and why . They do the right things for the achievement and success of the goal and vision of the organization.

Management is getting things done through others. Managers provide guidance, implementation and coordination so the organizational goals can be reached. Managers coaches employees to develop team- work. They direct and administer and focus on system. Managers rely on control and have a short range of perspective. They ask how and when things are done, accepts the statuesque and does things right.

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The author is Teacher II at Dolores Elementary School