Introduction
In today’s rapidly evolving organizations, the concept of followership is becoming an essential component of effective leadership. In the second episode of the Reell Insights Series in July 2024, Tiffany Moore explains why followership is a fundamental part of the leadership process, highlighting key findings from her research and how it directly impacts leaders, organizations, and employees. We will delve into these findings and understand how they strongly connect to the Seeing Things Whole framework.
What is Followership?
Followership is the process of supporting and contributing to leadership. It’s a two-way relationship where both leaders and followers are influenced by each other. In most research, leadership is often emphasized while followership is ignored. Moore’s research reveals that effective leadership depends on active and engaged followers. It is very simple: leaders can’t lead without their followers; for this reason, this dynamic is crucial for a successful organization.
Key Learnings from the Research
- Engagement is Crucial: Active followers, who regularly provide feedback and contribute to decision-making, have more influence. Engaged followers can be key to developing stronger organizations, and thanks to their work alongside leaders, they help create progress.
- Barriers to Influence: Some followers struggle to influence leadership due to organizational barriers like rigid hierarchies or lack of communication. When these obstacles exist, followers feel uninvolved and less motivated to participate.
- Influence Affects Job Satisfaction: Employees who feel they can influence decisions are more satisfied and likely to stay in their jobs. Those who feel uninvolved are more likely to leave their positions.
- Power of Collective Action: Followers working together are more likely to influence leadership than those acting alone. Collective action provides strength and drives change within the organization.
Connecting Followership to Seeing Things Whole
Seeing Things Whole is a leadership approach that emphasizes understanding the bigger picture of an organization, including the interconnected roles of leaders and followers. Moore’s research fits perfectly with this approach, as it highlights how vital followers are to the overall success of an organization.
Leaders who follow the Seeing Things Whole philosophy understand that their followers are not just subordinates, but instead key contributors to the growth of the organization. By recognizing the value of followership, leaders can create an environment more inclusive and collaborative, where everyone has value.
Tips for Leaders and Followers
Leaders:
- Encourage open communication and feedback.
- Create opportunities for followers to collaborate and contribute ideas. Break down barriers that prevent followers from engaging.
Followers:
- Take initiative by sharing ideas and requesting feedback.
- Build relationships with leaders to strengthen your influence.
- Work with others to strengthen your voice when sharing suggestions or concerns.
Conclusion
Followership can play a crucial role in leadership and organizational success. Moore’s research highlights how active engagement from followers can improve decision-making, support, and overall effectiveness. Leaders who adopt a Seeing Things Whole model recognize the importance of their followers, leading to more holistic, thriving organizations.