At this year’s International Economic Forum in Chorzów, we had the pleasure of meeting many fascinating individuals whose companies are active not only on the Polish market but are also conquering international ones. It was especially heartwarming to see so many of our alumni receiving awards for their companies. 

We were also a content partner of the dynamic and well-attended debate titled “Leader of the Future”, which sparked a lively discussion. What resonated so deeply with the audience? 

• What’s the difference between a manager and a leader? 
  We’ve started to confuse and equate these two terms, though there is a clear difference. A manager is appointed to their role. They have defined responsibilities and are held accountable for specific tasks. A leader is someone others choose to follow—even when times are tough. Someone they trust, yet feel comfortable challenging when they disagree. 

• The pandemic, war, and other crises have changed the game. 
  It’s no longer enough to manage people and processes. The personal, emotional, and mental health struggles of employees increasingly affect outcomes. Many employees, to the complete surprise of their managers, stopped hiding how they really feel—and most leaders weren’t prepared for that. 
  “This is not what I signed up for,” I often hear from management. The unspoken follow-up: “I’m not a psychologist.”