Followers

Good Leadership enhances followers, just as good followership enhances Leaders. (Heller and Van Til)

Leadership is not possible without followers. You have just spent a number of years as a First Officer – a follower. Don't forget what it was like to be a follower - that will make you a better Leader.


A superior and successful Leader will promote and foster good followership in the team by developing and nurturing essential follower skills. An effective follower;

• Works effectively as a team member



• Treats the Captain with the respect that is earned and is mindful of a positive Command Gradient



• Accepts all assigned tasks willingly and executes them to the best of their ability



• Maintains a positive attitude, especially when the situation is confused and changing



• Offers suggestions and uses assertion as appropriate, but without usurping the Captain’s authority



• Supports the chain of command, especially under stress



• Voices differences of opinion, but executes with vigour the eventual decision



• Demonstrates loyalty to the Company and its Leaders



• Places the task, team and Company interests above personal interests

Remember what it was like to be a First Officer and a follower. Recall the instances of good Captains letting you function efficiently and do your job and resolve not to emulate the poor Captains who suppressed their followers.

One of the essential qualities of good Leaders is that they look after their followers. Never forget to include your followers (First Officer, Cabin Crew etc.) in your sphere of Leadership.

It is your followers who determine if you are a good Leader, NOT you the Leader, or your superiors.