Most would agree that followers are critical to a leader’s success. But, if this is true – that followers are so important – then why do we pass down phrases like “if you’re not a leader, you’re a follower,” and “be a leader, not a follower”?
Today, the term “follower” has a negative connotation. But, what will happen if no one aspires to be a follower? Without them, how else can a vision be achieved? Barbara Kellerman, Harvard Professor of Public Leadership and author of “Followership,” said “Followers are more important to leaders than leaders are to followers.”
This means that, as a leader, I need to find the best followers I can and treat them in the best way possible if I’m to achieve my goals.
Also, many of the qualities that are desirable in a leader are the very same qualities we look for in our followers. What distinguishes one from the other at the end of the day? Sometimes it is a title. Other times it is a matter of who has ultimate responsibility and accountability for results. Steve Jobs is known for saying that “innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.” At the end of the day I believe there is a thin line separating the two.
As I think back over the followers that I admire the most, I consider these “musts” to be self-evident. A follower must:
• Disagree and question me regularly and passionately
• Offer ideas often, openly and without ego
• Execute with the precision of a master surgeon
In the end, followers and leaders need each other. Both should strive to be the best they can be in their respective roles. And each should be cognizant and respectful of those times when they shift from one role to the other.
Alan Derek Utley is the Director of Leadership and Professional Development for a global aviation services company. He blogs at AlanDerekUtley.com.
