What’s the difference between a boss and a leader? We often use the terms interchangeably but there is a very big difference. Read on to learn why boss and leader are not synonyms. Plus, find out ten qualities of great leaders.

This post was originally published in June 2020 as “Boss and leader are not synonyms”, and updated in April 2023.

In my post Reflections on 30 years in the group retirement business, I highlighted six tips for success at work…and in life. In that post I summarized what I see as the key difference between a boss and a leader.

“A boss focuses primarily on getting the work done. On the other hand, a leader creates an environment conducive to getting the work done by helping people perform to their full potential.”

Michelle, Boomer Eco Crusader

But how do leaders do this?

Definition of boss and leader

Let’s start by looking at how the Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines boss and leader.

• Boss – a person who exercises control or authority.

• Leader – a person who leads. (Lead – to guide on a way especially by going in advance.)

That’s not a bad start but let’s look beyond the dictionary definition.

Characteristics of bosses and leaders

To me, a leader is defined by the things they do that make them more than just a boss. When it comes right down to it, we can directly contrast the qualities and characteristics of true leaders with those of the traditional boss.

Here’s a quick summary.

That’s quite a list. Are you starting to see how your current manager displays some of these characteristics? Let’s have a closer look.

A closer look at the qualities of great leaders

• Early in my career when I first took on responsibility for staff, I made the mistake of putting my focus more on the work and the administrative aspect of management. Good leaders get results by focusing on the people instead of the work.
• Effective leaders take a collaborative approach. They seek input from workers on business problems and processes. Then, they turn that input into action.
• Strong leaders recognize the value of listening over talking. In meetings and interactions, they let other people talk first before offering their opinion. This avoids the problem where people go along with the boss just because they are the boss, even if they have an idea for a better way.  
• Have you ever had a boss take credit for your work? I have, and it didn’t feel good. Leaders make sure people get credit for the work they do. They recognize that their success depends on the people around them and sharing the credit makes them look good.
• Instead of micro-managing, the best leaders create an environment for people to succeed and then get out of the way. This means accepting that mistakes will happen. It takes a strong leader not to step in and fix things when they go wrong, but that’s how employees learn and grow.
• Inspiring leaders have a long-term vision but just having a vision isn’t enough. Successful leaders paint a picture to help people see the future state and inspire their teams to deliver it.
• Leaders don’t see employees as just a means to an end. They take an interest in their employees as people, and are supportive of their obligations and interests outside of work.
• When leaders give feedback, employees feel positive about the exchange. They know feedback is meant to be helpful rather than punitive. They use feedback to help build on strengths as well as improve performance.
• You’ve probably heard the saying “Give someone a fish, they will eat for a day. Teach them how to fish, they will eat for a lifetime.” The same is true for leadership. Although it’s easy just to give a quick answer, a leader asks the right questions to help employees find their own answers.
• When I first joined the workforce, I was literally afraid of my bosses. We would dread the moment they came roaring out of their offices barking orders. Real leaders inspire respect in their teams, instead of fear. Thankfully, it has been many years since I have been fearful of my bosses.

Let’s keep in touch! Join my mailing list and I’ll email you when I add a new post.

Management styles have evolved

A while ago, I watched the movie “9 to 5” with my daughter. I was in high school when that movie was released. Although exaggerated for comedic effect, the evil boss in the movie displayed a lot of the boss characteristics. Sadly, that wasn’t too far from reality at that time.

Bosses like that may still exist, but we can be thankful that management styles have evolved since those days. We’ve seen a transition from boss to leader. I can’t imagine authoritative, controlling bosses having much success in most modern workplaces.

Real leaders don’t need a title

My final point on leadership is that it’s a skill, not a job. Leaders are everywhere and they’re not always the people you expect. You’ll find them in all jobs at all levels of an organization. In addition, you’ll find leaders anywhere a group of people get together—schools, church groups, sports teams, community organizations, neighbourhoods, and even families.

You don’t need a title to be a leader. You just need to lead the way and inspire people to follow by modeling the right behaviour.  

Are there other qualities of great leaders you’d add to this list? Tell us below.