McCallum makes the case that business schools are currently too focused on leadership to the exclusion of its counterpart. They aim to attract ambitious applicants who are hoping that by developing their leadership ability, they will be recognized and eventually reach an executive position. To that end, schools are making evidence of leadership ability an entry requirement. However, the author makes the case that there is another essential skill that has to be taught at business schools: followership. He defines this skill as the ability to follow directions, support programs, work as part of the team, and satisfy expectations.
While it does not sound as glamorous as leadership does, it is equally essential to the success of the business. Without it, the orders that the leaders give from above would not be followed exactly as intended, leading to unexpected and undesired outcomes.
A person in a low-to-middle leadership position will have to work on teams before they reach their goal of reaching the top of the hierarchy. As such, without followership skills, they will not be able to demonstrate their competencies well and receive the promotions that they would like to have. To help aspirants, McCallum provides eight qualities that he considers vital for a follower: judgment, work ethic, competence, honesty, courage, discretion, loyalty, and ego management. These skills let one deliver what the upper management expects while remaining a valued team member and keeping operations ethical. People who wish to distinguish themselves and be promoted should consider these traits.
References
McCallum, J. S. (2013). Followership: The other side of leadership. Web.