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Effective Followership

“Good followers exhibit exactly the sorts of characteristics that pundits talk about when describing good leaders.”

(Chris Lee; “Followership: the Essence of Leadership,” Training; Jan 1991, 28)

What is Followership and why should we discuss it?

Followership refers to a role held by certain individuals in an organization, team, or group.

Specifically, it is the capacity of an individual to actively follow a leader.

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(Kelley’s Model of Follower Behavior)

Passive

Independent, Critical Thinking

Active

Dependent, Uncritical Thinking

Lack initiative, Do not play an active roleSimply comply with any order given

Readily Carry Out Orders “Person who always says what he thinks leaders want to hear”

Festering wounds in an organizationCriticize, but never offer constructive support

Problem solversworks with othersReflect on goals Not hesitant to bring concerns to leader

The 10 Rules of Good FollowershipBy COL Phillip S. Meilinger, Joint Forces Command

1. Do not blame the boss.2. Do not fight the boss.3. Use initiative.4. Accept Responsibility.5. Tell the truth and do not quibble.6. Do your homework.7. Suggest implementation.8. Keep the boss informed.9. Fix problems as they occur10. Put in an honest days work. 4

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Make sure you understand your boss’ context:

Goals and Objectives Pressures Strengths, weaknesses and blind spots Preferred work style

Develop & maintain a relationship that: Fits both needs and styles Is characterized by mutual expectations Keeps your boss informed Is based on dependability and honesty Selectively uses your bosses time and

resources

Managing Your Boss

From Managing Your Boss, Best of HBR, 1980, by Gabarro and Kotter

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Assess yourself and your needs:

Strengths and weaknesses Personal style Predisposition toward dependence on authority

figures

Mustangs and RebelsWhat’s the Difference?

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(Kelley’s Model of Follower Behavior)

Passive

Independent, Critical Thinking

Active

Dependent, Uncritical Thinking

Lack initiative, Do not play an active roleSimply comply with any order given

Readily Carry Out Orders “Person who always says what he thinks leaders want to hear”

Festering wounds in an organizationCriticize, but never offer constructive support

Problem solversworks with othersReflect on goals Not hesitant to bring concerns to leader

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Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs (Motivation)

Table Talk

Followers: In light of this, what do you need to do to better support

your boss?

Supervisors: What do you need to do to bring out the best in your

subordinates?

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Don’t forget to look in the mirror

"When things go wrong in your organization, start searching for the reason in increasingly larger circles

around your own desk.“

Gen Bruce Clarke

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