If you’re confused about your leadership role you must first understand the different functions that fall under the leadership moniker. A manager’s role is to ensure that things get done. A mentor teaches from a place of expertise, “been there, done that”. Finally, a coach challenges a leader with questions that allow them to find their own way.

In an ever-changing business landscape, effective leadership is crucial to driving success. As a leader, you often find yourself navigating multiple roles, each vital in its own right: manager, mentor, and coach. Understanding how to balance these roles can significantly enhance your team's performance and overall business outcomes.

As a leader, what is your “North Star”, your direction, intention and understanding that your guidance will be heard, appreciated and respected by people who are looking for purpose and opportunities in their daily work to be valued contributors? As a leader it is important to know how you can best help your team in order for them to help you succeed. The business case here is helping them find their niche, their purpose, be engaged so that they’ll do better, will be more likely to want to stay and will want to go above and beyond. Workers spend a large portion of their lives at work. Granted, some are in it for just a paycheck; however, the workers who will make a positive difference to a business’ success are those who have found purpose in their work, who know that their work matters.

THE MANAGER ROLE

The manager’s role is fundamental in any organization. This involves overseeing day-to-day operations, setting clear objectives, and ensuring that tasks are completed efficiently. Effective management requires a keen understanding of processes and the ability to allocate resources appropriately to ensure that team members understand their responsibilities so that productivity can flourish.

THE MENTOR ROLE

Transitioning to the mentor role, leaders are tasked with nurturing their team members’ personal and professional development. Mentorship involves sharing insights, experiences, and knowledge, fostering an atmosphere of continuous learning.

A transformative mentor not only provides guidance but also encourages team members to take ownership of their growth. This relationship is built on trust and open communication, which can lead to increased worker engagement and loyalty. By investing in your team’s development, you cultivate a more skilled and confident workforce.

THE COACH ROLE

Finally, the coaching role emphasizes empowerment and skill enhancement. As a coach, your focus shifts from managing tasks to facilitating individual and team growth. This involves setting clear goals, providing constructive feedback, and encouraging team members to explore their potential by asking the right questions and guiding individuals to find solutions independently. By fostering a culture of collaboration and self-improvement, you empower your team to overcome challenges and innovate.

One fundamental aspect in business remains critical, the need for meaningful work, in other words, what energizes, and inspires your workers to continue doing what they’re doing. When you as a leader think about what gives your people a sense of purpose, it’s about them feeling that their work has a positive impact on others and the world around them. Your work matters.