Introduction

The ability to lead and manage effectively is highly sought after by industry, as employers seek to produce and develop managers who can motivate, enthuse and build respect throughout their workforce. The hard and soft skills required by leaders and managers are frequently highlighted by employers as skills gaps in recruitment. Developing these skills will help students to meet career aspirations in leadership and management.

The aim of this unit is to help students to understand the difference between the function of a manager and the role of a leader. Students will consider the characteristics, behaviours and traits that support effective management and leadership. Students will learn about the theories that have shaped the understanding of leadership and management and how these have provided a guide to action for managers and leaders who want to secure success for their businesses. Students will look at leadership styles, how and why they are used and the extent to which they are effective. This unit also gives students an understanding of motivational strategies. They will develop motivational strategies covering intrinsic and extrinsic aspects of motivation. Finally, students will evaluate the importance of managing performance in achieving continuous improvement.

Learning Outcomes

• LO1 Examine leadership and management theories and principles, and their impact on the effectiveness of an organisation
• LO2 Review the influence of different leadership and management styles on the culture of organisations
• LO3 Develop a motivational strategy to optimise organisational performance
• LO4 Apply leadership and management approaches to managing performance to ensure continuous improvement

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