Synopsis
In John Kotter’s article “What Leaders Really Do,” he compares and contrasts leadership and management responsibilities. He argued that they are not synonymous, but they are complimentary. Each plays a significant role in an organization. Kotter argued that management is systematic and controlled. In contrast, leadership is inspirational and motivating. Management is necessary for organizations; however, coaching, feedback, role modeling, and recognition are essential to successful organizations.
As a change management expert, he further argued that to implement change within an organization effectively, leadership must be credible, and management must be effective. A manager will organize and plan for actions and scenarios during a change. Leaders will align the organization encouraging acceptance of the new vision.
Kotter’s focus for organizations is to create a culture of leadership. He argued that organizations could provide their people with opportunities that will lead to their development as leaders. However, none of these are short-term. Executives must be willing to dedicate and invest time, money, and resources.
Just My Thoughts
John Kotter is recognized for his contributions to leadership and change. It is difficult to provide a critique on someone who I admire greatly truly. So forgive me if there is perhaps a slight bias in my writing. Personally, I find his work amazing and intriguing. Having spent a great deal of my life in organizations that tried but failed to lead and only managed, his work was inspirational and made sense.
He is recognized for his contributions to leadership and change. He provides logical reasoning for his arguments. His writing is also relatively easy to read. While researching for my dissertation, I spent a great deal of time reading his work. Organizational culture is essential, as I’m sure those of you not working for yourself already know. It makes or breaks an organization and its people.
If you have not had the opportunity to read any of John Kotter’s books or articles, I highly encourage you to look into them. Imagine a senior executive taking time and investing in the up-and-coming youth? What kind of world would that be?