subject: What Is The Difference Between A Project Manager And A Project Leader? [print this page] The words manager and leader are often used interchangeably, yet upon reflection, most people would agree that there are key differences between the two. Is one necessarily better than the other? One might assume that someone whos a leader would be better under any circumstances yet this isnt always the case.
First, its helpful to define the difference between a manager and a leader. This isnt always an easy task, as there arent strict definitions for either role, and in particular, the definition of a leader has many variations. In general though, a manager is someone who is more process-oriented, focused on the tasks that need to get done in order to reach a goal. A manager wants that process to run smoothly, and will put mechanisms into place to ensure that this is the case. A manager is organized and will get the most from people through that organization, rather than through inspiration and motivation. A manager sets out a workplan or list of tasks, and makes sure that the project team is hewing to that schedule.
How about a leader? Well, while a leader may also be good at some of the same things that a manager is, being task-oriented isnt his primary skill. Rather, a leader will have a vision on how to get things done, rather than focusing on the nitty-gritty. A leader will be able to inspire those on his team, or at least know how to get the most out of them. A leader will be able to shepherd his team through the most trying of circumstances, and wont ask others to do what he wouldnt be willing to do himself. Contrast that to a manager who sets out tasks and expects them to be done by the designated person. There are other metrics that can define leadership, but in general, a leader is someone who can surmount obstacles that seem impossible to overcome, and who will motivate his team to help him in the most difficult of efforts.
So, going back to our original question of whether every project needs a leader. If you have a straightforward project with the usual milestones ahead of you, then chances are that you dont actually need someone whos a visionary or otherwise capable of leading a team through trying circumstances. A project manager whos good at managing the process and making sure that everything is running smoothly and on time would be sufficient.
But lets say you have a project where you foresee trouble ahead, in terms of needing to get buy-in from a wide range of people, or where you know therell be pushback or other obstacles to overcome. In that case, while a leader may not be necessary, it would be helpful if your project manager also has some of the characteristics of a leader, so as to ensure that everything will go as smoothly as possible for the duration of the work.
