It is often said that people today are no longer loyal to organizations. Yet, employees are loyal to their direct supervisor. This discussion question asks you to evaluate and apply your understanding of followership theory. Reflect on any techniques for understanding, achieving, and positively applying organizational and personal power and influence as a follower. When effective leaders leave an organization to move on to another organization, they often take at least one or two employees. Employees who respect a leader and have generated a relationship and bond want to work under that leader. One indicator of effective leaders is good communication skills; a leader is attuned to the needs of each employee.
REAL-LIFE APPLICATION:
Discuss a leader with whom you are familiar and who has the loyalty of his or her direct reports. Alternatively, you might interview a friend or family member about their experiences or you may research a well-known leader. Address the following in your response. Evaluate how this leader earns respect and loyalty from his or her employees. If you were in a leadership position, what methods would you implement to inspire, motivate, and empower your employees? Support your discussion with solid logic.