Supervisors VS Managers: Similarities and Differences

It would be easy to assume that the terms ‘supervisor’ and ‘manager’ mean the same thing. Both roles are commonly found in the workplace and both have an important part to play in the success of a company.

For most people, the terms are used interchangeably. After all, it’s entirely possible to be a manager who supervises people. It is equally possible to work in a place where the supervisor manages others.

This confusion can lead to issues in understanding the precise responsibilities of a role. It can also mean that other employees are sometimes unsure of whom they need to speak to in a situation and that chains of command become difficult to follow.

To create clarity within a hierarchy – and wider company – it is important to understand what a role involves and the differences between job titles.