Follow the Leader

This past week I shared a luncheon presentation with a small group of young business professionals on the topic of leading versus following. As a child I remember playing a “follow the leader” game where each participant was expected to duplicate all actions of the leader during the course of each round or lose your spot until the next stage began. This autocratic approach to management and leadership is far too common in today’s organizations. It’s a methodology that crushes the human spirit and does little to create motivated followers at any level.

Each of us longs for inspirational leadership—someone who trusts the human spirit, connects with employees and customers at a soul level, and who exudes hope and optimism. When I consider leaders who fit this description there is often no title or role to validate their actions. They are mothers, students, truck drivers, and coaches who inspire others to follow them, even while they assume the role of follower on just as many occasions.

Inspiring leaders are focused on serving others. They seek to be kind instead of just being right. They learn how to be empathetic listeners with a willingness to act in a constructive way to what they are hearing and learning. Inspiring leaders practice courage, live authentically, and love unconditionally.

A paradox of leading and following emerges when one considers that a quality leader is only as good as the quality of his or her followers. Effective followers support the cause of their inspiring leader. They tell the truth and keep their promises; are open and willing to learn and change; are capable of leading when required; and provide emotional and spiritual support to their leader.

I have experienced both sides of this paradox although others will judge how inspiring a leader I am or have been. Where might you emerge? Do your followers see you as an inspiring leader? Do you contribute effectively as a follower who supports the cause, keeps your promises, and contributes to the energy of your team?

Regardless of your role as leader or follower, one thing seems clear. Organizations would benefit from inspirational leadership and inspiring followers. By unlocking the potential of both groups a virtuoso performance is possible, even in difficult economic times.