Strong leaders aren’t only defined by their charisma or ability to command—they’re also distinguished by how well they follow. Here’s how to develop the skill of great followership.
Active listening. True listening means suspending your ego. When you absorb input without defensiveness, you pick up signals others miss and create space for honest dialogue. This kind of listening helps you reduce blind spots, pick up weak signals earlier, and create psychological safety on your team.
Focus on purpose, not personal credit. Put outcomes ahead of ego. When you lead with shared purpose, not a need for recognition, you cultivate a team that’s focused on results over theatrics.
Deliver reliably. Execution is an essential part of leadership, and followers make things happen. Know how to turn plans into results and understand how work gets done—otherwise, strategy becomes wishful thinking.
Invite pushback. Good followers are open to being challenged. Make dissent safe and expected on your team. When you welcome pushback, you expand your perspective, avoid blind spots, and ultimately make sharper decisions.
Stay coachable. Feedback isn’t a threat; it’s fuel. Followers are constantly learning, and leaders who keep learning stay relevant, self-aware, and adaptable in a changing world. |
