[Sharon]

Do you believe there is a difference between managers and leaders? Explain your position and provide examples.

[Emmaline]

I do believe that there is a difference between managers and leaders, both has different focus, approach and impact within the workplace setting. for example managers enforces policy and rules in the workplace, but as a leader/charge nurse it is our duty to abide by the rules making sure others are also following the rules, ensuring that we are working in our scope of practice when providing care. while the manger job is making sure that everything is being implemented and monitoring performances.

[Linda]

Emmeline,
I agree with a lot of what you are saying. Do you think that managers are in a higher position of authority than leaders? I ask because you said that you see leaders as the charge nurse as opposed to the manager. If so, is there any similarities you see between the two? I feel like the best managers are also leaders-those who inspire you as well as enforce order in a workplace.

[Katrina]

I believe there is a difference between managers and leaders. Managers make sure policies are followed, everything is structured and have one-sided decisions. Leaders focuses on the ultimate vision with others, they motivate/inspire and develop trust. In quality improvement, long term success depends not only on managing systems, but on motivating people to work towards success together. For example, a manager may implement a new quality protocol and monitor the outcome, while a leader takes the initiative and engages with frontline staff by explaining why the change matters, listening to their concerns, and empowering them to find solutions that improve patient outcomes.

[Leah]

Hi Katrina, I agree with your comment between the differences between leaders and managers. People who are strong leaders tend to have more trust within their team compared to managers, people may be more inclined to go to their leader than manager.

[Jamie]

Yes, I do think there is a difference between management and leadership. I think from the above lesson alone there is a clear difference between a manager and a leader.

That being said, I think they almost aren’t comparable because management/ managers is a job title. Managers can be just managers but managers can also be leaders.

“Leader” is a personality trait, something that would affect your life in and out of your job. You can be a leader but not be in a management role.

Leaders are dreamers who look ahead to go after what they think is right.
Managers are there to do a job, and anything outside of their job title that they do would depend on the level of leadership they process within.

[Freda]

Jaime your reference to leaders being dreamers resonated with me. It speaks to leaders having vision and foresight and having or gaining the self confidence to pursue those dreams. You spoke to managers being a title and in their role to do a job but you also acknowledge they can be leaders. Depending on their skill and ability as a leader really does have a direct bearing on their success as a manager. That being said I would prefer to work with a manager that has leadership qualities than one that doesn’t.

[Linda]

Jamie,
I liked your take on leaders…I think it really IS a personality trait. You either know how to inspire (or learn it)or you blindly follow. Good points 🙂

[Chantelle]

Yes I do believe there is a difference between leaders and managers. Before reading the above chapter, I believed the difference was managers watch over everything staff and leaders do while delegating to them. While I thought leaders lead the staff to complete their tasks. I’m beginning to understand that leaders have a vision that provides better quality but importantly leaders need followers to execute the vision, leaders support staff while driving change when necessary to fit the vision. Managers on the other hand have different goals and are focused on the status quo while taking fewer risks and have short term perspectives.

[Jaswinder]

Yes, I believe there is a difference between managers and leaders. Managers prioritize organization, planning and making sure that tasks are executed out in accordance with rules and regulations. They are responsible for maintaining competence and structure. On the other hand, leaders motivate and encourage others to push forward for a goal that is common. They focused on inspiring collaboration and creative thinking while guiding and influencing others. For instance, a leader inspires the group help them in resolving problems or obstacles while a manager determines roles and monitoring success. I would like to develop leadership role because qualities such as being cooperative, guiding and situation adaptable can help me support team and efficiently handle problems.

[Thea]

After going through the assigned materials, I noticed a clear difference between managers and leaders, even though their responsibilities sometimes overlap. The text points out that leadership is not always linked to formal authority, while management is connected to specific roles within an organization. So, a person can show leadership without an official title, but managers are given their roles by the organization.

The reading says that leaders are visionary, creative, and open to taking risks, while managers focus on keeping things stable, following procedures, and making sure tasks are done correctly. I think this difference is important. For example, in a long-term care setting, a manager handles staffing schedules, enforces policies, and makes sure documentation meets regulations. Meanwhile, a leader could be a nurse who encourages the team to improve resident-centered care, questions old routines, and motivates others to use best practices, even without a formal title.

The saying “leaders do the right thing, and managers do things right” really stood out to me. Managers care about efficiency and structure, while leaders focus on vision and making improvements. In nursing, both roles are important. Following care standards is part of management, but speaking up for changes when those standards no longer help residents is an example of leadership.

From what I have seen, some people in management roles do not always demonstrate strong leadership, such as inspiring others or questioning the usual way of doing things. On the other hand, I have seen staff nurses set a good example, mentor their coworkers, and take initiative even without a formal title. These experiences make me think that leadership is about influence, vision, and helping others grow, while management is about organization, control, and keeping things running smoothly. The best workplaces are those where people can manage well and also lead with a clear purpose.

[Marilyn]

You have made some excellent points. I, myself, currently work as a community health nurse for an indigenous organization. My manager has no nursing background and often relies on my “expertise”. I do not feel that I have have any expertise or leadership skills but am beginning to understand that its just a part of who we are as nurses. Our vision is to get our client/patient to the best state of health as we are able, we encourage them to keep going when they want to quit, we build rapport and trust, we encourage our co-workers. I am an outsider, and that is to my advantage, I see how much the community is taking advantage our of workers and I am working on building policies to stop that. I am holding our leadership accountable to our workers and helping to repair damage done in the past, and avoiding future burnout and more staff turnover. I have found these articles very enlightening as to a “leadership” role.

[Sarena]

A manager typically focuses on planning, producing policies and procedures, and making sure day-to-day tasks get done. They oversee compliance and quality standards. A leader, on the other hand, is more about inspiring people, and influencing others to go beyond just tasks, leading by example. Some people can be both.
In a LTC facility the roles should be complimentary, blending towards the quality of life for the residents.
Leaders are inspiring by sharing positive feedback to help motivate quality of care.

[Angusami]

Hello Sarena,
Great insight. Thank you.
I do agree on your stand point that, managers working to fulfill organizational goals, But leaders are the ones working to gain trust among staff members, support them as needed and make sure things get done on a daily basis.

[Adella]

I also agree Serena, roles should be complimentary, blending towards the quality. Leaders are inspiring by sharing positive feedback to help motivate.

[Brittany]

I believe there is a difference between managers and leaders. I tend to think of leaders as the staff who are more on the ground, working alongside their team, whereas managers often work more in the background. Managers can seem more formal, while leaders are often more approachable, working at the same level as their colleagues while still helping guide the work and ensuring things get done.
I do believe that some managers are also strong leaders; however, I have also seen managers who do not demonstrate leadership qualities. To be an effective leader, I think it is important to first learn how to lead yourself before leading others. As a leader, you challenge both yourself and those around you to do the very best for your patients. Leaders often go the extra mile and genuinely enjoy doing so, whereas managers are working towards maintaining organizational goals. I really enjoyed the readings above, as they gave me a new perspective on the differences between leadership and management.

[Adeline]

Hello Brittany I agree with your discussion, leaders will always go an extra mile to make sure that their goals are being achieved and they do enjoy working as leaders. Leaders are always willing to take responsibility of their task and always put in all the energy and effort to make sure their goal is being achieved. Leaders are for the people; they will enjoy working with people(employee) to make sure goals are being achieved to enhance the success of an organization

[Marion Catherine]

Yes, I do believe there is a difference between being a leader and being a manager; however, the same person can be both. A leader can be a front line worker or function at any level or position within an organization. Leadership encourages an individual to look beyond the obvious and seeks ways to improve how things are done. They seek to enhance the flow of work, improve everyone’s effectiveness and efficiency by observation, critical thinking, engaging colleagues through inspiration and motivation. For example, an RPN leading a team consisting of a UCP and PSW’s observes the ebb and flow of the shift’s routine. Highlighting areas where there is an overlap of tasks, solicits the team’s views on learning each other’s functions as they relate to the specific scopes of practice members. Explaining that if we are willing and able to support each other when one of us is running behind, we build an efficient and knowledgeable team. The dream team goal!
A manager would not necessarily be that involved with the day to day routines of the subordinate staff. (Right there a distinction is made – hierarchy – leaders don’t enforce a hierarchy) A manager is accountable for ensuring program objectives are met and manages staffing concerns, among many other matters. Managers are not necessarily on the front lines pitching in when someone is running behind schedule. But they do ensure that the schedule is realistic and accommodates staff needs and program objectives.

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[Sarah]

Yes I believe there is a difference between managers and leaders often the goals of these two roles differ greatly; with the manager focused on logistical, day-to-day, operations of the organization, ensuring that tasks are completed according to the rules (policy, best practice, legislation, etc.) while leaders create and promote a vision, inspire trust and change, and are not bound by status quo and culture.

Not all managers are leaders and an example of this that I have experienced is a manager who instead of supporting some nurses to achieve the expected standard of care shifted responsibilities to dumb down the position forcing these nurses to work less autonomously which has created a culture lacking accountability and ownership and critical thinking.

I believe if a true leader had been in the same position they would have chosen to uplift and support those nurses to ensure the integrity, vision and expected standards of the organization were met.

[Stephanie]

I agree Sarah, I think if the manager has a different approach and the nurses feel supported the outcome would be different. I understand that managers have a job of their own that needs to be completed but I think most staff are more receptive to positive feedback and encouragement which a leader maybe would have done better.

[Adeline]

Yes i believe there is a difference between managers and leaders, managers will focus on structure, planning details as well as focusing on the how and when of a situation. For instance in a situation when an issue has to be addressed at work, the manager will lay down structures how the situation can be fixed as well as determining when and how/cause of the situation, how it happened, if it was addressed early enough, at what time and when it was reported. overall, managers will lay down the basic structures in enhancing the success in an organization thereby minimizing risk while leaders are the ones who educate the staffs on how to perform the guidelines and structure the manager has implemented to make sure it was achieved. It is very important to have a leaders and managers in an organization because they play distinct different roles in the growth and success of an organization

[Nathalia]

Yes i believe there is a difference between managers and leaders, managers will focus on structure, planning details as well as focusing on the how and when of a situation. For instance in a situation when an issue has to be addressed at work, the manager will lay down structures how the situation can be fixed as well as determining when and how/cause of the situation, how it happened, if it was addressed early enough, at what time and when it was reported. overall, managers will lay down the basic structures in enhancing the success in an organization thereby minimizing risk while leaders are the ones who educate the staffs on how to perform the guidelines and structure the manager has implemented to make sure it was achieved. It is very important to have a leaders and managers in an organization because they play distinct different roles in the growth and success of an organization

I agree with your point that both roles are imperative within a company to ensure different aspects of the company grow and succeed. As you mentioned different companies may have different structures that employ certain traits of a leader vs the manager for a specific task and in some situations it may be vice versa. When a company is capable of utilizing the versatility of their teams strength to implement processes and changes, the risk of failure decreases and illustrates new avenues for completion. Overall a successful company will ensure to affirm the values and mission through the manager, but the leader will help to build, support and drive the team to success.

[Nathalia]

I agree with your point that both roles are imperative within a company to ensure different aspects of the company grow and succeed. As you mentioned different companies may have different structures that employ certain traits of a leader vs the manager for a specific task and in some situations it may be vice versa. When a company is capable of utilizing the versatility of their teams strength to implement processes and changes, the risk of failure decreases and illustrates new avenues for completion. Overall a successful company will ensure to affirm the values and mission through the manager, but the leader will help to build, support and drive the team to success.

[Marilyn]

Do I believe there is a difference between a leader and a manager.

A good leader can become a good manager. I believe that the main difference between a leader and a manager is the scope – a manager has to see the bigger picture. For example in a hospital setting, a good leaders does what is best for the client (be that the patient, co-worker), whereas a good manager does what is best for the organization, while also taking into consideration the needs of the client. Many managers are not good leaders. They only take into consideration the needs of the organization.

[Shea]

Hello Marilyn

I agree with your point that a manager often has to look at the bigger picture while a leader may focus more on supporting individuals. I also like how you pointed out that a good manager should still consider the needs of the patient while making decisions for the facility. In healthcare, it is important to balance both perspectives. Your example in the hospital setting shows how leadership and management roles can overlap but still have different priorities. I also agree that not all managers demonstrate strong leadership skills, which is why both is so important in healthcare.

[Cheryl]

I believe there are certainly similarities between being a leader and a manager such as inspiring others to reach their goals, and positivity etc. I feel that Mangers certainly bear the responsibility of the nurses or employees while leaders do not necessarily. Leaders can reinforce, coach, mentor and inspire without being responsible for the well-being of that person. A manager can do all of those same things as well, however in addition to that, they must ensure policies are upheld and employees are safe etc.

[Samantha]

I believe there is a difference between a manager and a leader but I also feel like you can be both in certain roles and circumstances. A manager is task focused, often a title that you hold, they focus on ‘what to do’ and leaders focus on ‘ how to do it’ Being a leader doesn’t mean that you have a title in your job or company, it really explains who the person is. Someone that challenges the norm, inspires people, leads by example, teaches. Managers tend to have a more structured vision and leaders are open to change and welcomes every ones thoughts and opinions.

[Shea]

Yes, I believe there is a difference between managers and leaders. From my experience working in long-term care, managers often focus on ensuring staff follow policies, completing performance reviews, and making sure documentation is done. Leaders focus more on supporting their team and working together. For example, I have seen managers mainly focus on daily operations, while leaders are willing to step in and help when the unit is busy or short staffed. This could include helping on the medication cart, assisting PSWs on the floor, and listening to staff concerns while working together to come up with a plan. Leaders help create a more positive and supportive environment where staff feel heard and valued.

[Emmaline]

i agree with your point not everyone naturally demonstrates leadership qualities some managers focus more on implementation and prefer a structured approach

[Alexis]

I do strongly believe there is a difference between managers and leaders especially after reading week one material. The sentence from the reading “ not all individuals in management positions are leaders” caused me to stop and reflect on my past and present managers. Being a floor nurse for 8 years and in a few different departments has allowed me to experience a variety of managers. The ones who stuck out to me the most and came to the top of my head the quickest were the ones who had made the biggest positive impact on me. While investigating that further, I realized that those managers had leadership characteristics. For example, during the pandemic I worked on a respirology unit/ designated covid unit. My manager, Dawn had a goal and made it known to all of us that her top priority was to keep all her employes as safe as she could while working the front lines. She always made sure we had all the appropriate PPE we required even during all the shortages. She provided drop-in education sessions on information about COVID and refreshers on oxygen therapy and best practice guidelines. Dawn would constantly check in on employees throughout the shift ensuring everyone’s needs were met or acknowledged. She absorbed criticism during these encounters but always had a solution or tried her best to have the best outcome possible to our concerns. Some of the key leadership characteristics that my manager showed was adaptability and willing to assume responsibility while doing it with a vision in mind that she was beyond motivated to achieve. She provided constant opportunities for education which I would say renewed our whole group and allowed us to be best possible nurses we could be in that situation. With the PPE shortages, I remember units fighting over supplies and higher up managers trying to limit use. I am sure with that my manager Dawn encountered a large amount of conflict but still managed to stick to her vision and we never had any concerns of not enough PPE, showing her to be very dependable and tolerant to stressful situations. I think her daily frequent check ins with staff promoted a very positive environment and kept everyone moving towards her same vision of keeping us all safe during the unknown. Shortly, after the pandemic was over, I moved towns and obtained a new job at a smaller community hospital, and I was vastly underwhelmed by the support provided by this manager. Even being a new employee, there were freqeuent check ins to see my progress or even daily check ins on the unit, no opportunities for drop in learning and just overall lack of support. There was the required 3-month performance review but before or after no follow up. Just a check off the task list. Emphasis was strongly on budget, cutting needed PSW/ resources and trying to take supplies away. Doing things right based off her task list and not doing the right thing by listening to her employees and the resources we needed. Very little emphasis on many other things showing she was mostly concerned with the bottom line. This unit I was on, staff moral was also horrible. She was very “status quo” did not take many risks in advocating for staff or unit needs. Staff constantly expressing they didn’t feel supported and nothing was ever changing. Now, what I am realizing with this course and self reflection that this example heavily shows the truth in what the described as “ when leaders are able to be manager productivity is enhanced”. I also think the environment shift, moral improves and the workplace is more enjoyable when your managers have the traits you look up to

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[Nathalia]

I believe there is a difference between managers and leaders, although in some cases one person can be both when they are able to lead and manage a team to success with a specific mix of skills and traits. As previously mentioned in the article the skills for both roles take time and experience to develop. For instance a leader must learn to follow in the early stages in order to see the different perspectives and find self-confidence and empowerment to identify the skill and traits that make them excel and continually grow to become a great leader. Management however will ensure that the policies are followed, timelines and structure of the company will be maintained and make decisions so that the company will succeed. Managers will work with the team towards a common goal, but strategize and maintain the status quo at all times, whereas leaders will challenge the norm in order to allow the team to explore and grow their skills and traits. Leaders are powerful not only because people will follow those that they share ideas with, but because they push them to be uncomfortable and be able to drive the difference, empower people to grow by instilling confidence and getting them excited to fulfil their role within the company. An employee will always gravitate to the person that builds a connection by utilizing the communication styles they can relate to and more often than not leaders are able to identify and build stronger connections than some managers for this reason. Leaders are optimistic mentors because they seek both the growth of the company and its individuals; where managers can hyper focus on tasks and completion and less at the creative components utilized to achieve the goal, missing out on potential options. One is not independent from the other, but as described in the reading we are able to separate and easily pick some of the traits and skills of a great leader vs a manager, but i strongly believe that it is the differences that combined achieve a balanced leader/manager and a successful candidate to lead a team.

[Terrinah]

A manager ‘s main job is to make sure tasks are completed on time and according to rules. Managers focus on systems, schedules, and results. They tell employees what to do, assign duties, and check whether the work is done correctly. Managers follow their job position in the company.

A leader is someone who inspires and guides people. They motivate others, encourage teamwork, and help employees grow. A leader creates a vision or goal and encourages everyone to work together to achieve it. People follow leaders because they respect them.

[Lisa]

Management vs Leadership

I do believe there is a difference between management and leadership. Leadership focuses on connecting with people and has a long term success vision. Management focuses on managing/controlling current situations and processes.

My current role is a floor nurse in LTC. I use my leadership skills every shift connecting with PSWs, residents, family and other staff within the interdisciplinary team. I do also follow management guidelines in completing assigned daily tasks and ensuring PSWs do the same.

[Angusami]

I do believe there is a difference between the roles of a manager and a leader.
Managers involved in planning create and help enforce policies individualized to the workplace setting. They are often working towards obtaining organizational success and adhering to ministerial compliance.
On the other hand, leaders well aware of the ground reality, guide/support staff members, implement and/or modify the processes as needed, competently handle risks and conflicts, appraise the effectiveness of the implemented tasks, and provide feedback to the managers about the effectiveness of the processes. They often have the willingness to accept the visions and recommendations from a staff member. Leaders clearly understand what staff members really need to achieve the goals and are inclined to support the staff.
Thank you all for sharing their knowledge and experience. It helped me to understand the topic better.

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[Cheryl]

I agree there’s a difference between managers and leaders. Managers usually focus more on policies, planning, and making sure the organization meets its goals and regulations. Leaders are often more focused on supporting and guiding staff day to day.

In a long-term care setting, both are important. Managers keep things running properly, while leaders help motivate the team and support staff so they can provide the best care to residents. When someone can do a bit of both, it really helps create a better work environment.

[Susan]

So True! I think managers who listen to the leaders in their environments will find the best ways of dealing with situations that may not be obvious from a purely “management perspective” . Finding solutions to existing issues , while always should be on a manager’s radar, are often actually brainstormed and solved by leaders in particular settings.

[Shannon]

I believe there is a difference between Managers and leaders. Managers focus more on what needs to be implemented as a whole for the establishment. They collaborate with other managers and may not always have their voices heard but do what a collaboration believes is the best solution or outcome. A leader is a staff member you can confide in, you look to for advice.
They use their knowledge as a tool to educate and lead by example. Leaders are the best advocates for their patients as well as their co-workers. Leaders and managers could be responsible for positive change in the workplace. However managers or leaders could not be well liked as they have to make difficult decisions or decisions that some agree with and others do not.
Managers work may be affected by other managers, families, ministry of health or others. While leaders may need to have cooperation from managers to facilitate their requests for intervention.

[Jaswinder]

Thank you for sharing your point.
I agree there is a difference between leader and manager roles. Managers concentrate on carrying out plans and collaborating with others to reach decisions made by the organization. Leaders are the ones that other members look to trust and guidance for actions. Both are capable to bring positive change but they might also have to take tough decisions that not everyone will agree with. Managers and leaders usually need to collaborate to assist colleagues and obtain goals.

[Freda]

I believe there is a difference between managers and leaders. To start, I believe leaders can be both a leader and a manager, but a manager may not always be a leader. I found the chapter reading interesting and inciteful as it began by introducing the idea of followers. It said that one cannot be an effective leader if they don’t have effective followers and how most of us are followers more often than we are leaders (Patrionis Jones, R. (2007). A manager may not gain the trust of their followers and therefore may not have success in leading them.
I remember my first nursing role in Long Term Care (LTC). I was given two days orientation and no formal mentorship in place. The expectation was I take on the responsibility of the home when management was not present while also being directly responsible to do medications and nursing care of 32 residents. In addition, it is the practice in LTC that the nurse oversees the PSWs on the floor. When I look back now, I realize the DOC at this time was a manager but did not fill the role of a leader. Her practice was to remain in her office and only engage when there was a concern with care or practice. The results of this created a negative work environment and high staff turnover. One of the outcomes of this scenario is the PSWs (the followers) took on more of a leadership role and inevitably a power imbalance evolved within the care team.
As nurses we enter our practice with different experiences, knowledge and confidence. For us to grow in our leadership abilities it is important to embrace experiences such as these and explore in our own practice how to advocate for ourselves, those we work with and those we care for. We can find ourselves leading, following, and sometimes managing.

[Vanessa]

I believe managers and leaders are fundamentally different, even though the two roles often overlap. Management focuses on structure, policies and ensuring tasks are completed correctly, while leadership is rooted in inspiring, supporting and guiding people. That said, managers can absolutely possess strong leadership qualities and when they do, the workplace becomes a better, more positive environment for everyone. By listening to staf,, encouraging creativity and motivating employees to do their best while still upholding policies and expectations. Managers can lead with purpose and create a culture where people feel valued and empowered.

[Evan]

This is exactly what we need more of. I agree that managers and leader can be very different roles with some overlap, and that the best in either category possess trait from both. managers without good leadership skills or leaders without any managerial skills may struggle to get teams to complete tasks as the teams my not follow their directions but those managers that have good leadership skills and leaders with a good understanding of managerial process will often inspire their teams and push them to be the best they can be.

[Teresa]

Leaders lead. They work alongside with others and set a good example and inspiration for others to follow. While Managers focus on achieving goals for the organization such as hiring new employees and making sure that they are well-trained and suited with the position; they create policies; evaluate employees; and has good conflict resolution between staff and management. Both can work side-by-side to create a harmonious and positive environment for staff.

[Jovelisa]

So….I always believe that there is a difference between a manager and a leader. A manager is doing the job that is required to be done and expects the subordinates to carry on the work to make it possible. Managers does not really expect to know how the work is to be completed, managers expects only to make it sure that the job is completed as required. Many managers are not ‘people person’. These managers are ‘school learned leaders’, not ‘born leaders.’ Leaders in other hand, are rule followers, (like the managers), are people that are born with the talent of making other people feel comfortable in their presence. Leaders make things possible, works well, consistent and works with the team. Leaders are good teachers and role model.

[Marivic]

Hello Jovelisa,
Leaders are good teachers. They lead by example. They work collaboratively to get things done. They build trust, inspire and support with the team.

[Aysha]

Yes, I do believe that manager and leader has differences in their role. Managers are mostly focused on organizational goal achievements by controlling and managing the task. Whereas leader supports, guides and advocates for staff while working together for the same goal. Managers are not always approachable but a great leader is known for their friendly manner and openness to discussion.

Aysha, I agree with you. Managers tend to be more focused on the tasks being completed rather than HOW they are getting completed. A leader helps others to figure out solutions to effectively completing said tasks.

Yes, I feel there is a significant difference between managers and leaders. Managers generally implement and enforce policies and procedures, commanding the cooperation and compliance of those under them. A leader tends to motivate others. People often naturally gravitate towards a leader because of their confidence, willingness to own up to mistakes and knowing that the leader is trustworthy and reliable.
Some people have the ability to hone both titles very well.

[Erin]

I love your reasons for why people gravitate towards leaders. It is definitely something I look for in a leader.

[Stephanie]

Yes, I believe there is a difference between leaders and managers. Like the readings explained that they can overlap but that they do not always overlap. Managers have a job to ensure policies and procedures are being followed and can follow up with disciplinary actions. A leader can be someone who others look up to because they are confident, intelligent, easy to communicate with, and often are “friendly” with their coworkers.

[Erin]

I believe there is a difference between managers and leaders.
Leaders have a more personal focus to their goals where managers focus on making sure the policies and procedures are followed correctly. I do believe that managers can have leadership qualities, but not every manager.

[Sharon]

I do believe there is a difference between a manager and a leader. I think that most managers does possess leadership traits, but not all leaders can manage effectively.Effective leaders are more focused on visions to guide change.Whereas I think managers are focused on achieving organizational goals through implementing a process, for example staffing and training. Nevertheless, I do believe certain situations sometimes will require managers to step up into more of a leadership role while others will need leaders to take on more of a managerial role. Borth roles overlap from time to time.

[Marivic]

Hello Sharon, I absolutely agree that a manager does possess leadership traits. In some cases, it can overlap depending on the situation you are in. Managers established policies, guidelines and procedures to maintain stability and consistency of work. In comparison, leaders focus on building trust, motivating and supporting others.

[Adella]

Yes, I do believe there is a grey line between a manager and a leader. If it was a perfect world they would intertwine nicely, allowing staff to work to their full scope, share ideas to improve the work that you do, allowing you to broaden your personal goals while achieving organizational needs.

Not everyone can express the qualities of a leader, it takes the right personality and approach to have buy in from those you are working with, you often work along side a leader rather that for a leader.

[Deirdre]

so, after a lot of thought about this and many attempts at sharing my answer I feel the difference to a manager and a leader is as many of you have shared a manager is focused on getting a task done and a leader focusing on how to get that task done.
As we all know a manager will throw out different tasks, a leader will go above and reach out to staff and offer help, guidance and education to help staff approach this task with the opportunity for learning.
In this learning approach it will allow for individuals to challenge themselves and explore their problem solving skills while getting the task completed.
There is lots of areas in LTC as we have many challenges that need different approaches. Just the other day our team was trying to work through ways to keep a resident from any further injury post fall. Some interventions have been tried in the past with this resident so we had to become creative but it does seem to be working for the moment.

As everyone has said, there are definite differences between managers and leaders. In my workplace I consistently see leaders and they are not people in glass offices. They are the ones on the unit supporting co workers, collaborating with staff to create solutions to difficult problems, implementing timelines that can be unrealistic from managers. These staff members mentor new staff and truly care for each other. Clearly organizations need both of these roles to fuction well however having a manager who also leads is the best of both worlds.

[Norma]

Hi all, I know some of you may have had access issues, and hopefully they are getting resolved. Great discussion on the difference between leaders and managers. There are differences, as many of you have noted. Managers typically focus on planning, organizing, and controlling processes to ensure tasks are completed efficiently and policies are followed. Their work is often centered on structure, schedules, and operational stability. Leaders, on the other hand, focus more on vision, inspiration, and influencing others toward future goals. I read a few of you mention that the leaders are dreamers. I would agree that true leaders have a vision or a dream of reaching a goal, often for the greater good of the organization, or, for most nurses, I would say, for the people they serve. According to Kouzes and Posner, effective leaders inspire a shared vision, model desired behaviors, challenge existing processes, enable others to act, and encourage the heart—practices that focus on motivating and empowering people rather than simply directing tasks (Kouzes & Posner, 2017).

[Cheryl]

I feel that managers and leaders are different but yet can overlap depending on the individual.

Managers usually focus more on the organization side of things and are hired by say the LTC organization. A nurse manager in a long-term care home might handle staff issues, make sure documentation is done properly, review incident reports, and ensure policies like infection control are followed. Their role is to keep the home running smoothly.

Leaders focus more on supporting and motivating the team. In long-term care, leadership can come from an experienced RPN who helps guide new staff, supports PSWs when residents are having challenging behaviours, and keeps the team working together during busy shifts.

They can overlap because good managers are also amazing leaders because they not only make sure the work gets done but also support their staff and create a positive environment for both the team and the residents.

[Margaret]

Yes, there is a difference between managers and leaders. Managers focus on structure, planning, and ensuring tasks are completed according to policies and procedures. For example, a nurse manager may create schedules and monitor documentation. Leaders focus on inspiring and motivating people toward a shared goal. For example, a nurse leader may encourage teamwork and support staff to improve resident care

[Tammy]

hi all
i see managers and leadership overlapping at times but they do have different areas of focus and different aspects. Managers focus may need to be on policies and processess where as leaders may question if the process works best and may incourage innovation and ways to improve.

[Sharon]

I do agree that leaders and managers overlap from time to time. Leaders and managers always makes decisions, though their decision types may be different. Leaders follow a calculated approach to achieving goals. Managers make operational decisions about resources and processes. However, most decisions require both strategic and operational thinking simultaneously.

[Evan]

there is definitely a difference between a leader and a manager.

A manager worries about the whether or not tasks are completed, and leader makes sure their people have everything they need to complete assigned tasks. a manager takes credit, a leader credits the team. a manager reacts to problems after they happen, a leader tries to fix problems before they become serious.

the example I’ll use for this is, staff suggest that there is a conflict between 2 residents who are roommates. a manager might say “keep an eye on the residents and let me know if anything happens”. a leader might say “what can we do to try and prevent anything from happening”.

a manager might say “leave it with me” whereas a leader might say “lets brainstorm a solution”

[Kellie]

Yes I totally agree…management focus on the liability and reference P&P, where a leader will look at the situation and as you say “brainstorm”

[Susan]

In my experience I have worked with amazing leaders who become managers, as well as some managers who need to grow into the leadership part of their role. Managers fundamentally will need to have short term goals within their environment- to meet expectations of the unit or facility that they manage, for instance making sure all the policies are in place. A leader in this same facility may be one to challenge the “status quo” when something might work better in their specific environment to help both nurses and their clients benefit. A leader will step into a situation and help to find the answers with their staff and facilitate safe and respectful change in that environment, while following nursing standards of care . This enhances everyone’s experience and helps better our care and the client and family’s understanding of why certain elements of care exist.

[Kellie]

Do you believe there is a difference between managers and leaders?

Yes there is a difference. Managers have a specific agenda they were hired for. They are behind the scenes making sure that all policies/procedures and work is completed. The leaders are the ones who look at their team, seek their voice on what they need and facilitate that.

[Linda]

There is a definite difference between managers and leaders. The most obvious difference to me is that managers like stability, and ensure order in the workplace-they follow and enforce predetermined rules, where leaders inspire change through innovation. They see what works but they don’t stop there. They instead, look for areas of improvement and opportunities for more engagement.
In saying this, I do believe that there is a benefit from both of these archetypes in a workplace…but a good manager is just a manager, while a great manager is a leader as well.

[Stephanie]

Yes, I believe there is a difference between managers and leaders, through the roles can overlap.
Managers are primarily focused on structure, processes, and consistency. They tend to ask, “How do we do this right?” An example of a manager in a long-term care setting is a supervisor who monitors whether staff are following care protocols, such as proper medication administration and infection control procedures.
Leaders, on the other hand, inspire others, encourage growth, and help guide teams. They tend to ask, “Are we doing the right thing?” An example of a leader is a team leader who motivates coworkers during a stressful shift, helping maintain morale and teamwork.

[Author]

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