Leader vs Manager

Posted on Sat 28 May 2022 in Leadership

I am an Engineering Manager and an Engineering Leader. What is the difference?

This can be an interview question and it is very important to be prepared with a good answer here.

When I was asked this interview question during one of the panel rounds at Anaconda, I really liked this question.

The first obvious difference to come to my mind based on my experience is that as a leader I often try to lead by an example. As a manager, I need to ensure that I manage people and project deliverables.

Leader Manager
One who leads One who manages
Leading by examples and leading from the front Manage people and projects
Influence and motivate the team Delegate, orchestrate things within the team

All leaders are not managers