Are you a Commander a Leader or a Manager?

There are innumerable articles, posts, workshops that discuss the roles of that of a leader and a manager. They very often overlook that of commander, a critical role in many circumstances.

Success depends on finding the right balance between command, leadership and management. Knowing when to adopt the appropriate style is what separates average performers from exceptional ones.

Command is about authority and decisiveness. In a high pressure situation or a crisis there’s no time for endless debate. Clear direction and immediate action are essential.

But if command is overused in business or day-to-day operations, it has the potential to stifle creativity and engagement.

Leadership, by contrast, is about inspiration and influence. Leaders rally people around a shared vision, build trust and drive change. Leadership is what creates buy in, motivation and energy. However, vision without structure risks having good intentions but without delivering results.

Managers plan, organise and ensure processes run smoothly. They make sure resources are used effectively and that the organisation delivers consistent outcomes. In steady periods, management keeps the business on track. But in times of disruption, pure management without leadership or command can feel rigid and unresponsive.

The lesson for any business owner is that none of these roles work in isolation. In a crisis, you may need to step into command mode. When you’re launching a new initiative, leadership is what will carry people with you. And when you need sustainability and stability, management is the backbone. The best leaders are able to switch between these modes.

Is your natural style that of command, leadership or management?

Try leading more if you tend to manage, manage more if you tend to command, and command more if you tend to only inspire.

The balance you strike could transform not only your effectiveness but also the performance of those around you.