What is the difference between being a leader as opposed to being a boss? How are they the same? How are they very different?  Here is Ron Edmondson to answer that question.

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Originally posted by Ron Edmondson

ARE YOU A BOSS OR A LEADER?

I have to be honest I hate the term boss. When someone refers to me as their boss I almost feel like I’m doing something wrong as a leader.

Forgive me for making me think I’m the boss.

There are so many differences in a boss and a leader. If only in connotation.

A boss seems to have all the answers — even if they really don’t.
A leader solicits input to arrive at the right answer.

A boss tells.
A leader asks.

A boss can be intimidating — if only by title.
A leader should be encouraging — even if in a time of correction.

A boss dictates.
A leader delegates.

A boss demands.
A leader inspires.

A boss controls systems.
A leader spurs ideas.

A boss manages policies.
A leader enables change.

People follow a leader willingly. You have to pay someone — or force them — to follow a boss.

BY CONNOTATION THERE IS REALLY ONLY ONE BOSS.

In fairness, there are times I have to be the boss. Even the “bad guy” boss — at least in other people’s perception.

But I much prefer to be a leader.

AND IN ANY HEALTHY ORGANIZATION THERE WILL BE MANY LEADERS.

Do you work for a boss or do you serve with a leader?

Be honest.