Based on almost any definition of success, both Bill Gates and Mary Kay Ash are considered to be successful and effective managers, leaders and businesspeople. Both of these individuals have established clear goals and visions for their respective companies, and both have developed strategies that have resulted in their companies becoming successful. The leadership styles of these individuals are very different. Bill Gates uses a task oriented leadership style while Mary Kay Ash relies on her ability to energize and motivate people by developing relationships with her employees and consultants. In both cases, the leadership styles work well in the business environment in which the companies operate.
There are important differences between leaders and managers. According to an article published in Kellogg World Alumni Magazine (2003), William Weldon, the CEO of Johnson and Johnson addressed the graduating class at the Kellogg School of Business and made a number of comments about the need for leadership in American business. Weldon said America needs fewer managers and more leaders. Weldon told the graduates that leaders place great importance on customers and market dynamics, but also value employee innovation, and focus on personnel development of their subordinates and collaboration among their employees. According to Weldon, leaders are always good managers, but managers are not necessarily good leaders. Weldon encouraged graduates find a leadership style that is effective in the organization in every organization in which they are employed during their business careers (2003).
(2003). U.S. Businesses are Looking for More Than a Few Great Leaders. Kellogg World Alumni Magazine, Retrieved Jan 17, 2006, from http://www.kellogg.northwestern.edu/kwo/sum03 /inbrief/ johnson.htm.
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