The terms “leadership” and “management” are commonly used interchangeably, but there
are distinctions between the terms. Leadership is associated with a macro/visionary perspective,
while management is a term used to describe lower level tactical functions a manager accomplishes.
Kotterman’s (2006) discussed the differences between leadership and management by distinguishing
the term “leadership” as being strategic and continuous planning, plus dealing with future change
and where the organization is headed. From an organizational perspective, it is the macro thinkers
who plot the long-term path of the organization. Leaders display a long list of characteristics that
include motivating, inspiring, and energizing employees. They also take risks, promote change,
display driven emotion and align the organization goals with a vision. These same leaders are
passionate about their visions and goals, developing strategic (long-term) plans and setting a course
for organizational success. Management, on the other hand, deals more with the here and now and
the organization’s day-to-day operations (Kotterman, 2006).