Leadership and team management are closely linked. A leader with many qualities can set an example for his followers. Leaders who are well-trained will be more effective in managing their team and achieving better results. How does this relate to followership? Followership is essential to leadership if leadership is important for performance. Leaders care about strategic vision so they use power and politics. The ability to get work done by a group. It also includes the ability to influence others’ behavior. Politics can exert pressure on the team, regardless of whether or not people agree with them. Leaders know the difference between power, politics, and when to use each technique. Good leaders have committed team members who share the vision of the leader. Leaders can set goals and time frames, and attract top talent.
There are many qualities that make good followers, but how do you identify them?
People who exercise their discretion. Good followers don’t follow blindly. They use their discretion before following their leaders. First, distinguish between a directive from their leader on how to proceed and one that is actually wrong. We all have to answer to our organization. It is our duty to care.
Beware of flatterers – If your team members praise you for every task and accomplishment, it is important to distinguish between genuine praise, forced praise, and false praise. False praise and forced praise are different because some subordinates are extremely fearful and love to do the same thing as the majority. This kind of praise is not dangerous, since they are the ones who don’t like or dislike you. Be careful with flatterers as their intentions can be dangerous and difficult for you to understand.
Look for honest and hardworking team members. Good followers are open about their roles and responsibilities, and are trustworthy. They are self-motivated and self-directed, and always give their best. As a leader, it is your responsibility to create an environment that encourages these qualities. Bad workers cannot be good followers.
Do your best. Be fair to all members of the team and avoid favoritism. You will usually be able to lead if you have enough good judgment as a follower.
Talented people who are serious about their career. If a follower is not serious about the task, they cannot be trusted to follow. The leader must ensure that the followers have the necessary skills. Incompetent team members should not be blamed. They should not blame the follower in such situations, but themselves. Poor leadership is when a team member is blamed for not having a certain skill set.
Some people place less importance on work ethics. They believe work must be done on-time, at all costs. Those who work ethically and point out their leader if they see anything that is not in line with ethics are the true heroes. Leaders should be thankful for honest and constructive feedback from their team members.
Leaders are able to inspire others and get things done by earning the loyalty, respect and cooperation of their team members. They are the ones who set the direction and lead the way. They are direct in their approach and open to feedback and input. If you can build a team of loyal followers and achieve your goals, no one can stop the leader from reaching his or her goals.