I’m trying to build a case for incorporating more opportunities for students to take on both leadership and follower roles within our school. We tend to focus a lot on developing "leadership skills," but I worry we’re neglecting the equally important skills that come with being a good follower.
Specifically, I’m concerned about the following:
- How do we ensure that students aren’t just rotating leadership roles but actually learning something from the experience? Is it enough to just have them lead a group project, or should we be more intentional in our approach?
- What are the potential negative consequences of not providing opportunities for students to practice being good followers? I feel like some of our students struggle to work effectively in teams because they’re always trying to be in charge.
- Are there certain subject areas or extracurricular activities that are particularly well-suited for fostering both leadership and follower skills? I’m thinking about things like debate, sports teams, and even classroom discussions.
- Finally, how do we actually assess these skills? We can easily see if someone completes a project or leads a presentation, but how do we evaluate their ability to effectively support a leader or constructively contribute to a team without taking over?
Answer
It is critically important for students to experience both leadership and follower roles. This dual experience contributes significantly to their personal, social, and professional development in multifaceted ways.
Experiencing leadership roles allows students to develop and hone essential skills. It cultivates initiative and the ability to proactively identify needs and opportunities within a group or organization. Leadership experiences demand decision-making capabilities, teaching students to weigh options, analyze consequences, and make informed choices, often under pressure. These roles necessitate effective communication skills, including clear articulation of ideas, active listening, and the ability to persuade and inspire others. Delegation is another crucial skill fostered through leadership, requiring students to assign tasks appropriately and trust others to complete them effectively. Furthermore, leading others builds confidence and self-efficacy, empowering students to take risks, overcome challenges, and believe in their capacity to influence outcomes. Leadership experiences also nurture responsibility and accountability, as students learn to take ownership of their actions and the actions of their team, accepting both successes and failures. Conflict resolution becomes a necessary skill as students learn to navigate differing opinions and mediate disputes within a group. Finally, leadership roles offer opportunities to develop strategic thinking and planning skills, as students learn to set goals, develop plans, and manage resources to achieve desired outcomes.
Conversely, experiencing follower roles offers equally vital benefits. It fosters the development of teamwork and collaboration skills, teaching students how to contribute effectively to a group effort, even when not in charge. Follower roles encourage active listening, allowing students to understand different perspectives and appreciate the contributions of others. They cultivate empathy and the ability to support and encourage team members. Follower roles also provide opportunities to learn from others, particularly those in leadership positions, by observing their strategies, decision-making processes, and communication styles. Students learn to execute tasks effectively and efficiently, understanding the importance of following instructions and meeting deadlines. Respect for authority and the ability to work within established structures are also developed through follower roles. Moreover, these roles foster humility and an understanding of the importance of collective success over individual recognition. They also provide opportunities to practice constructive criticism and offer feedback in a supportive and respectful manner. By experiencing follower roles, students learn the value of commitment and dedication to a shared goal, even when personal preferences may differ.
The combination of both leadership and follower experiences creates a well-rounded individual who is adaptable, resilient, and effective in a variety of situations. Students who have navigated both roles are better equipped to understand the dynamics of teams and organizations, appreciate the perspectives of both leaders and followers, and contribute meaningfully to any group they are a part of. They develop a nuanced understanding of power dynamics, communication styles, and the importance of collaboration. This understanding translates to greater effectiveness in future academic, professional, and civic endeavors. They are better prepared to lead when necessary, and to support others when appropriate, creating a more collaborative and productive environment.
Ultimately, exposure to both leadership and follower roles empowers students to become well-rounded individuals who possess the skills, knowledge, and attitudes necessary to thrive in a complex and interconnected world. It prepares them to be effective leaders and valuable team members, contributing positively to their communities and workplaces. The ability to seamlessly transition between these roles is a hallmark of a mature and adaptable individual, making the cultivation of both experiences an essential aspect of a well-rounded education.
