This is the first in a four-part series of instruments that relate to the distinctions between leaders and managers. Each of the four instruments deal with a distinct component of leadership, as listed below:
- Direction-providing short and long-term vision for the organization
- Alignment-helping others to understand and embrace the direction
- Achievement-helping others to accomplish the direction
- Personal qualities-the innate characteristics of a leader or manager
This first instrument is about direction. Both leaders and managers are concerned with providing direction for the organization but there are differences. Leaders build bridges to the future. Managers help us to actually get there.
Please assess yourself regarding the following characteristics. There are three possible answers for every question. The far right and left options define a clear position whereas the middle option defines a balance between the two positions. If both answers describe you equally well, then choose the middle option.