Why Should you Upskill in Leadership and Management?

What’s the difference between leadership and management? 

Although they’re often used in the same sentence, leadership and management actually require slightly different skills and abilities. 

Management emphasises planning, organising, and coordinating resources to achieve specific goals. It’s more task-oriented and often involves controlling processes. In contrast, leadership focuses on inspiring and motivating people, setting a vision, and encouraging others to follow and achieve it. 

The approaches of management and leadership can also be different. Management involves the implementation of systems and processes, ensuring that day-to-day operations run smoothly and efficiently. Leadership, however, is about guiding and influencing others, building relationships, fostering a positive culture, and driving change. 

In terms of scope, leaders will attempt to shape the future direction and vision of an organisation, promoting innovation, transformation, and growth. Management deals with managing work, projects, and teams, maintaining stability and order within an organisation.  

The skills required for each role also vary. Management demands technical skills, planning, budgeting, and organisational abilities. Leadership requires emotional intelligence, communication, vision-setting, and motivational skills.  

Finally, authority in management and leadership differs. Management is typically associated with a formal position of authority within an organisation. Leadership, however, can be exhibited by anyone, regardless of their position, as it is more about influence than formal power. 

Why is it important to develop skills in leadership and management? 

For many, a role in management or team leadership is a career goal and something that they aspire towards. The importance of developing skills in leadership can divided into 3 categories: 

Career Progression 

Mastery in both leadership and management can make a huge difference in career progression. Businesses often look for individuals who can not only manage tasks and teams effectively but also inspire and lead others towards achieving strategic goals. By developing these skills, you’ll become a more competitive candidate for higher-level positions, helping you to future-proof your career at a time when roles can be few and far between. 

Organisational Success 

Effective leaders and managers are pivotal to an organisation's success. Leadership skills help in setting a clear vision, motivating employees, and driving innovation, while management skills ensure that operations run smoothly, resources are utilised efficiently, and goals are met. Together, these skills contribute to improved productivity, employee satisfaction, and overall organisational performance. 

Personal Development 

Developing leadership and management skills also fosters personal growth. These skills enhance self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and communication abilities. They enable individuals to handle stress, resolve conflicts, and make informed decisions. As a result, individuals become more confident and capable, both in their professional and personal lives. 

What is the average wage in leadership and management? 

The salary will vary depending on industry and the specific role, but the average wage for a manager in the UK is £40,863, according to Indeed. Here are some examples of average wages related to leadership and management according to Indeed, as of August 2024: 

• Marketing Manager - £39,753 
• IT Manager - £46,417 
• Project Manager - £49,216 
• HR Manager - £42,940 
• Sales Team Leader - £31,124 
• Finance Manager - £47,368 
• Customer Service Team Leader - £33,455 

The majority of these roles, especially management roles, are above the UK average wage which is around £35,828 per year (pre-tax). This shows how important developing these skills can be for career development, allowing you to earn a wage that takes you further. 

How can you upskill? 

Upskilling in leadership and management doesn’t have to be a long and difficult process. In fact, we’ve made it simple. Our online qualifications hub features a huge range of courses suited for every occasion and every need – Including yours. 

Develop skills in leadership in as little as 90 minutes with our short course available to purchase for just £28, or view our full range of management courses and find the perfect course for you today.