Throughout my career in the software industry, and indeed throughout my life, I have observed and reflected upon the nature of management. In doing so, I have come to distinguish between two distinct types of managers: leaders and caretakers.
The Leaders
Leaders are the individuals you aspire to work under. They are the ones who elevate their teams, consistently striving to raise the bar. True leaders lift others up, often propelling people beyond their own achievements. They are the catalysts of change, unafraid to challenge the status quo in pursuit of continuous improvement. Leaders are characterised by their willingness to innovate and disrupt existing norms for the betterment of their team and organisation.
The Caretakers
In contrast, caretakers are those who prioritise process and stability. They are cautious, preferring to maintain the existing order rather than risk unsettling it. These managers are content with a comfortable, unchallenged position, where the primary goal is to tick boxes and adhere to established routines. Caretakers inherit and uphold the processes set by their predecessors, seldom questioning or seeking to understand the underlying reasons behind these processes. They operate within set boundaries and are reluctant to remove guide rails, even when doing so could lead to innovation and improvement.
A Call to Self-Reflection
Reflecting on my experiences, I have encountered both types of managers. The caretakers are often those who do not question processes, who do not seek to understand the purpose behind guide rails, and who avoid the opportunity to innovate. This reluctance to question and challenge can stifle progress and inhibit the potential for growth and improvement.
Therefore, I pose a question to all individuals with the title of ‘manager’: Are you a leader or a caretaker? Do you strive to elevate your team, challenge the status quo, and foster innovation? Or do you prefer to maintain the existing order, prioritising stability over progress?
Understanding the distinction between these two types of management can profoundly impact your approach to leadership and the success of your team and organisation. So, take a moment to reflect on your style. Are you truly leading, or are you merely caretaking?