Chapter 7

Management and Leadership

In chapter 7 you learn about the difference between being a manager or a leader, the various types and styles and the responsibilities associated with each role. Leaders provide more visionary guidance, whereas managers ensure a leaders vision is carried out in practice.

The functions of management are further described and divided in to four categories, including Planning, Organizing, Leading and Controlling. You can see through the management characteristics and responsibilities noted that the position requires a diverse set of skills.

When I owned a restaurant and then a baked goods business I managed workers and would consider myself more of a democratic or participatory type of manager. Although, I prefer free-rein, this was not always a feasible option. I found it most challenging to manage different personalities and especially where there was conflict. When I was a marketing manager, I had one or two people reporting to me which was more manageable and preferable. I was able to be more hands off and allow for a free-rein style in this position which I preferred.

Based on the information reviewed in this chapter, have you worked for a manager that you think exemplified the skills required to be effective? What specific examples can you share that illustrate the managers effectiveness? What lessons did you learned from your experience?

Do you want to become a manager? What type of manager and why? What steps will you take to develop your managerial skills?