What’s that one thing that differentiates A Boss and A Leader

During my 3 years of career (which is quite less) but has made me realized the big difference between these two — boss and leader.

The major thing that differentiates is the way they speak and listen.

A Boss will always say “I want to make this company BIG” and on the other hand a leader would say “We together will make the company BIG”.

I remember those days when I was making my first presentation, I was panicking because I don’t know hot to start with, how to make story that people can relate to. He (my TL) was watching me and then came to me and ask if I need some help. I wanted to scream YES but have to control myself. Then he took a glance on my presentation and told me where I was wrong. He made me learn and share his experiences of presentation skills and story telling art.

My TL switched his job and we got a new Lead in a very few days. He was looking strict by face and he was actually was. Due to lack of resources he gave me the task which was not in my job description. I took it as a challenge but I was not aware of that it would be very difficult for me. Still I tried. As the task was new for me, I had some questions spinning my head. We were told to ask questions straight so this is what I did. I went to his cabin and ask him.

Instead of focusing on my question he questioned “Why I am playing safe” Why I am asking him such down question that even infant can answer. He was ruthless. Instead of appraising me for the efforts I put on the task that was not my job to do, he started scolding me.

My heart screams out You are a boss and not a team lead.

As per my opinion a Team Lead best quality is to stay calm and respectful at all times.

Unlike bosses leaders should be patient, active listeners, and should genuinely take a compassionate approach to ease the hardships that anyone else is experiencing.
That is the mark of a great leader!