What is the difference between doing things right and doing the right thing?
The conjunction “and” in the statement to me is showing there is a difference being made between the first clause- a process and the second clause- an act. The process, doing things right, means that a task will be done according to the established procedure or according to the directives given by a manager/supervisor. However, acting on the process requires thought, which may cause individuals to say no, that is not right. The individuals responsible for fulfilling the task may realize that there may be a fault or danger involved in following the procedures.
Based on your learning and experience, do you agree that managers do things right and leaders do the right thing?
Over the years I have experienced where the managers/supervisors tend to do the right thing, which is to follow what has been mandated by the department of education. In our text, authors Barbara Moran and Claudia Morner (2018), defines managers as having five roles: planning, organizing, staffing, leading and controlling. They are going to set and carry out the policies and lead the daily activities(p.11). Managers are going to establish the process and most of the time see that it is implemented.
On the other hand, Moran and Morner(p. 335), points out that though managers and leaders are closely related, leaders draw on their ability to influence others. Using that influence means that they may do what is right by their followers and the right thing. I love the figure used on p. 336 in the text that shows some of the differences between managers and leaders. The figure shows that more successful organizations have leaders, those who have followers, not employees and those that inspire trust and not simply following the status quo.
Do you know any leaders, or managers, who do things right but also do the right thing?
Fortunately, YES! I have worked with leaders who have followed procedures, but also knew how to establish trust in their school. They knew how to create visions for the students as well as their staff. They were not afraid to challenge the status quo respectfully and shared with the staff that they would take the responsibility for the change. Those leaders had low teacher turnover and low absenteeism.
Source:
Moran, B. B. & Morner, C.J. (2018). Library and information center management (9th ed.). ABC-CLIO.
I also found the chart/figure in the textbook that explained the difference between leaders and managers, it was very helpful in separating the two in my mind. Also, towards the end of your post you mention school leaders who are able to do the right thing and do things right. Regardless of where I’ve worked, these leaders you described seem to have the most morale among their employees. Subordinates seem to do what is asked of them with very little, if any pushback and they look forward to coming to work. As it is much, much more enjoyable to do your job or carry out tasks when you have a supervisor you like and respect. I think that everything I read, learned, and thought about this week will be very helpful to keep in mind going forward and striving to be a librarian.
Hi Delrose,
I agree with your statement that managers still have to apply thought to their actions and commands and ultimately do what is right. The handbook only goes so far, and good judgment in situations is key to being a successful manager.
I agree that managers in the educational setting tend to do the right thing in regards to what is mandated by the department of education (DOE). I wondered if you had ever encountered a time when you disagreed with a mandate put out by the DOE? If so, how do you approach the topic with your manager in a respectful manner?
Lastly, your comment on successful leaders in your school was incredibly insightful. Absenteeism and low staff turnover are the hallmarks of a great leader and manager. As Morner and Morner mention in their description of managerial functions, “leading involves creating a shared culture” (2018, p.12). It seems to me that you have had the pleasure of working with some great leaders. Thank you for your post!
Moran, B., & Morner, C. J. 2018. Library and information center management. 9th ed. Libraries Unlimited.