Leading and Managing People/PMAN102/Managing vs. Leading/Microblog

Roles and tasks of managers and leaders

• Step 1: Identify a person you believe is a good manager (Person A) and another one you believe is a good leader (Person B). These people don’t have to be celebrated or famous. In fact, you might have more insight about people you know well or have encountered in your everyday life.

• Step 2: Once you have selected the two people, write a list of reasons why you think Person A is a good manager on one sheet of paper, then turn it over. On a second sheet of paper, write why you think Person B is a good leader.

• Step 3: On the same two pieces of paper, think about each person and list all the tasks/actions they perform in either their managerial or leadership role.

• Step 4: When you’re done, put the two sheets side-by-side and compare them. What do you notice?

• Step 5: Share your results, reflections and questions (if any) with your classmates by writing a blog post. Remember to tag (Wordpress) or label (Blogger) your blog post using the course tag: PMAN102. For example, you may wish to comment on the following:
  • Do you see any similarities between the two roles and accompanying tasks?
  • Do you see any differences between the two roles and accompanying tasks?
  • What makes these two persons good at what they do?

Note: Sharing your insights with your classmates via a blog should lead to a deeper understanding for you and others as everyone can benefit from each other's experience and knowledge. You are also encouraged to comment on the work of your peers so that an educational discussion might be triggered among your community of learners.

Reminder: Keep the similarities and differences between your examples of a good manager and a good leader in mind when you complete the discussion post that follows. Also keep the two lists you made for the learning challenge at the end of this pathway.