As we move further into this century, theorists, sociologists, and other researchers observe how critical it is that those who serve in leadership positions understand followership – not only from the perspective of understanding those they lead, but from the perspective that a leader must first be a follower before he/she can be an effective leader. Douglas Smith says it quite succinctly . . .
- “In the twenty-first century organization, all leaders must learn to follow if they are to successfully lead . . . Leaders at all levels and in all situations must pay close attention to situations in which their most effective option is to follow – not because the hierarchy demands they ‘obey,’ but because performance requires them to rely on the capacities and insights of other people.” Douglas K. Smith