Manages vs. Provides Support

Attribute	Manages	Provides Support
Definition	Directs and controls resources to achieve specific goals	Offers assistance or aid to someone or something
Responsibility	Accountable for the success or failure of a project or team	Assists others in achieving their goals or tasks
Authority	Has the power to make decisions and give orders	Does not have the power to make final decisions but can offer guidance
Focus	Primarily concerned with achieving objectives and goals	Primarily focused on helping others succeed

Definition

When it comes to the workplace, the terms "manages" and "provides support" are often used to describe different roles and responsibilities within an organization. Managing typically involves overseeing a team or project, making decisions, setting goals, and ensuring that tasks are completed efficiently. On the other hand, providing support involves offering assistance, guidance, and resources to help others succeed in their roles. While both roles are essential for the success of a business, they require different skill sets and approaches.

Leadership

One key difference between managing and providing support is the level of leadership involved in each role. Managers are typically seen as leaders who are responsible for making decisions, setting direction, and holding team members accountable for their work. They are often in charge of delegating tasks, resolving conflicts, and driving the overall success of a project or team. On the other hand, those who provide support are more focused on offering assistance and guidance to others. They may not have the same level of authority as managers, but they play a crucial role in helping team members achieve their goals.

Communication

Effective communication is essential for both managing and providing support. Managers need to be able to clearly communicate expectations, provide feedback, and address any issues that arise. They must also be able to listen to their team members, understand their needs, and offer guidance when necessary. Those who provide support also need strong communication skills to effectively assist others. They must be able to listen actively, ask questions, and offer advice in a clear and concise manner. Building trust and rapport through communication is key for both roles.

Problem-Solving

Managers and those who provide support often need to be skilled problem-solvers. Managers are responsible for identifying issues, finding solutions, and making decisions that will benefit the team or project. They must be able to think critically, analyze data, and come up with creative solutions to complex problems. Those who provide support also need to be able to help others solve problems. They may offer advice, resources, or alternative perspectives to help team members overcome challenges and achieve their goals. Problem-solving is a key attribute for both managing and providing support.

Empathy

Empathy is another important attribute for both managing and providing support. Managers need to be able to understand the perspectives and feelings of their team members in order to lead effectively. They must be able to show empathy, offer support, and build strong relationships with those they manage. Those who provide support also need to be empathetic in order to understand the needs and challenges of others. They must be able to offer assistance in a way that is sensitive to the emotions and experiences of those they are helping. Empathy is crucial for building trust and fostering a positive work environment.

Decision-Making

Decision-making is a key attribute for managers, as they are often responsible for making important choices that impact the success of a project or team. Managers must be able to weigh the pros and cons of different options, consider the needs of their team members, and make decisions that align with the goals of the organization. Those who provide support may also need to make decisions, but their focus is more on offering guidance and assistance to others. They may help team members make decisions by providing information, resources, or advice. Decision-making is a critical skill for both managing and providing support.

Conclusion

In conclusion, managing and providing support are both essential roles within an organization, each requiring unique attributes and skills. While managers are responsible for overseeing teams, making decisions, and driving success, those who provide support offer assistance, guidance, and resources to help others succeed. Both roles require strong communication, problem-solving, empathy, and decision-making skills. By understanding the differences and similarities between managing and providing support, organizations can ensure that they have the right people in place to lead and assist their teams effectively.