This Week's Word & Thought: Boss vs. Leader

I have been actively involved in business for 40 years now and would hope that I have learned a thing or two in my journey to where I am at now.  I have worked for and with multiple startups, one of which I was third in the company and it was acquired by a very large (58^th global Forbes ranking) tech company.  I have also worked with or for multiple other small, medium, and large companies.  One retailer who ranks 998^th and another retailer who ranks 17^th.  I have even worked for a major oil and gas company that was acquired by another and combined they are now ranked 359^th. In all, I believe I have worked with or for over 25 companies, many while I had my own business consulting practice.

Pointing out the various companies is simply to emphasize that I have worked for or with a great many types of bosses and leaders.  In many cases, I was an independent consultant and had a ringside seat to the show, often with humorous and thought-provoking results.  I have also had to examine myself professionally on multiple occasions and I believe as you age this is something you do quite often, especially in a leadership position in your career.  My ultimate belief is that you accomplish more by listening and guiding than by speaking and demanding. 

I searched high and low for a famous quote that put into words more eloquent than mine the evolved beliefs in how best to manage others that I now hold.  Funny thing is that it took quite a bit of research to sort out who the author of the quote was.  His name was Russell H. Ewing and he lived between 1885 to 1976.  Mr. Russell was a British journalist and author who predominantly focused on business management.  Although the following quote is in many books and quote websites, the information on him is limited; however, I love this quote.

“A boss creates fear, a leader confidence.  A boss fixes blame, a leader corrects mistakes.  A boss knows all, a leader asks questions.  A boss makes work drudgery, a leader makes it interesting.  A boss is interest in himself or herself, a leader is interest in the group.” – Russell H. Ewing

This style of management does not mean there is no consequence for someone struggling in their current position.   However, it does mean a leader will work to either correct the issue or situation, work to find another way for the employee to be successful, or simply be blunt and let them know this particular situation is not working.  At no time should there be deliberate creation of fear to motivate.  Fear is a very temporary motivator and you are only left with resentment and anger.  At some point, if this continues, that anger becomes a fury and is more potent than the fear.  In other words, ruling by fear will eventually backfire.

I you are staff, then work with whomever is your leader or leaders.  Speak up and don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek help.  If you are a leader, don’t boss – LEAD.

Namaste,

Tom