The following points highlight the difference between a manager and a leader.
| Basis of Difference |
Manager |
Leader |
| Existence |
A manager can exists only in a formal organisation. |
A leader can exists in formal as well as informal organisation. |
| Objective |
A manger focuses towards influencing the behaviour of employees towards achievement of the goals of the organisation. |
A leader focuses towards the satisfaction of the individual and group goals of his followers. |
| Power and Authority |
A manager holds formal authority and can exercise power and control to influence the behaviour of the employees. |
A leader does not command formal authority and can only influence the behaviour of the followers through such means as trust and faith. |
| Interrelationship |
A manager can be a leader as well. |
A leader may not be a manager. |
| Functional Spread |
The functions of the manager are widespread and include planning, organising, staffing and directing. |
Functions of a leader are limited to directing. |
