Leader and boss: similarities and differences

Introduction to both concepts

Leader and boss are similar concepts, but not the same. We talk about a leader when a person becomes an example for the rest of the people accompanying them (whether in a work environment or any other context). On the contrary, a boss is a person who has the capacity to command. That is, a person who has the capacity to make decisions. 

Traditionally, the two concepts tend to be associated with each other because a person is considered to become a leader because of his or her natural ability to lead others.. However, this is not always the case. When this happens, it's important to know how to identify where the failure has occurred, as well as to work, as far as possible, so that the person in question can become a leader of the rest of the team under their charge, in addition to being a boss. 

Similarities between a leader and a boss

Some of the most notable similarities between a leader and a boss are the following:

• They represent a subject of authorityAlthough in the case of the boss it's due to their position and in the case of the leader it's due to the charisma they exude, in both cases these are people who hold a position of authority over the rest of the team. 
• They represent a subject of reference in the face of doubtsAlthough for different reasons, both a boss and a leader are points of reference in the face of the rest of the team's uncertainty. In other words, they are people the team will turn to in cases of doubt or uncertainty. 
• They must make decisionsWhether concerning a boss or a leader, both individuals must make decisions that will affect the development of their team's tasks or the staff under their charge. 

Differences between a leader and a boss

Although some similarities exist between a leader and a boss, the reality is that the differences are more noticeable compared to the similarities. Some of the most prominent differences are as follows:

• Origin of the authorityOne of the similarities between a leader and a boss is that they both hold positions of authority. However, this authority stems from different sources. In the case of a boss, this authority arises from their position of power. Conversely, in the case of a leader, this authority comes from the respect they command from others, respect earned through their innate charisma and capability. 
• Proximity to the rest of the teamDue to their position, a typical boss tends to be someone distanced from the rest of the team. In contrast, a leader tends to see themselves and project an image of themselves that identifies them as more of a part of the team.
• Approach to the way of workingIn the case of a boss, their approach to work consists of giving orders. Conversely, a leader's approach is more focused on playing a pedagogical role. In other words, they serve as an inspiration to the rest of the team. 

Leader and boss: contradictory subjects?

Although the difference between being a leader and a boss tends to be emphasised, the reality is that both positions constitute complementary realities. In fact, it's possible for leaders who don't hold positions of responsibility, like a boss, to exist within the same company. And vice versa, bosses who hold positions of responsibility but fail to exercise leadership among their subordinates. 

However, this does not imply that both characteristics are contradictory. It is most recommended that every boss should be able to progress to become a leader, and that every natural leader should eventually become a boss with real recognition in the company. In this way, one achieves to unify the advantages of both profiles and bring the best talent to the table when making decisions and leading teams. 

Do you want to be a leader?: think about your employees' needs 

One of the characteristics that both bosses and leaders must take into account is thinking about the people under their charge. In this sense, those companies that introduce social benefits for their workers achieve a higher team performance, greater motivation and better talent retention benefits include Ticket Restaurant, Nursery Ticket or Transport Ticket, among others. Thanks to these social benefits, employees' working conditions are improved without the need for a direct increase in wages, which benefits both the company and the employees themselves.