Followers leading towards a better leader/follower dynamic


 

What?

The leader/follower relationship is one that we see in many different facets of our lives: parenting, sports, work, friend groups, etc. The dynamic can look different, but often times, there can be a bias that the leader’s role is more valuable. However, more and more research is starting to focus on the value of the follower and while both roles are equally important, there is a one significant piece that sets them apart: you can have followers without a leader, but you can’t have a leader without followers. The relationship can only be made stronger by a deeper understanding of how the balance between the two is beneficial for all. Most research is focused on followers as it effects leaders. Learning why this is important could help shift the external view of the dynamic to better mirror the real-life relationship.

So what?

Though some leadership/followership roles are forged on our behalf, that does not negate that fact that we can all be innately both, often simultaneously. Similarly, if we do not work towards it, we could be ineffective at both as well. In the instance of an ineffective leader, it is important to not forget our abilities as a leader while maintaining a follower position. This is because being a follower doesn’t mean to practice blind obedience. It shows the power that followers do have by being able to contradict or “stand up” to a leader who isn’t exemplifying effective leadership. They make choices in who they follow, empowering them to influence the decisions made within their team. This is a skill that can be taught and trained. Showing the impact that good followers can make to a dynamic and how they can better leaders is a great way to highlight the value of followers, detached from what the leader elects to do. It is more than just saying how important followers are, but showing it. This allows follower to engage more and rewrite the narrative and build better moving forward.

Now what?

As followers adapt and become more active participants in their roles, it is equally as important to teach leaders to value followers and not take them or their role for granted. Better leaders can be shaped from followers, as they can understand the importance of both sides of the coin. The more we show the benefits of a flourishing partnership, the more both parties can better themselves and better their purpose.

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