Coaching, Training, Team Re-Building, Public Speaking, Consulting: Success Factory

Be A Good Follower

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A lot has been written about leadership but very little about being a good follower. The most important values of a good follower must surely be integrity!

One of the most important skills of a good leader is the ability to delegate work to their staff but the outcome would be quite dismal if the follower does not have the ability or willingness to perform the task.

The following are crucial to the effectiveness of any follower:

	Displaying a good attitude - in other words a willingness to co-operate with others.
	Being a good team player.
	If the leader can trust that the follower not only has the ability to perform certain tasks, but also that they are willing to and can be trusted to complete those tasks correctly - and on time – you have a winning formula.
	A good follower has the ability to use their own initiative. The leader cannot do everything – including making timely decisions. If the follower proves to have the ability to use their own initiative they will be invaluable to any organisation.
	Behave professionally at all times. In other words the follower:

- Is compassionate and empathetic towards others
- Is respectful

- Is competent – in other words has the skill, knowledge, attitude and attributes - needed to perform their duties well

- Has high emotional maturity
- Has a good image
- Has excellent communication skills
- Builds relationships with others through networking
- Has good manners and follows good business etiquette
- Has good time management skills
- Has leadership potential

Remember:

1.	Always give your boss clear and concise feedback. Report your movements to your boss and make sure that you inform him / her of issues that may arise. Be sure that your boss is aware of all outcomes and milestones.

2.	Always treat your boss with the utmost of respect and never speak ill of him or her – even if you have reason to. The same applies to your organisation.

3.	Stand up when a more senior person approaches you. It is good manners and very professional.

4.	Never go over any boss’ head to someone more senior just because you think you will get what you want higher up.

5.	Don’t argue with your boss or refuse to do what they expect of you.

6.	Do not phone your boss after hours unless you have his or her consent.

7.	It is ok to be ambitious, as long as you don’t spread the word that you are after your boss’ job.

8.	Never borrow anything from your boss – least of all money.

9.	If you find that you don’t respect one of your superiors, remember that you have to respect their position. Perhaps you can resolve the issue between you to regain your respect. You will be viewed in a very good light if you make an effort to heal the relationship and if you can’t, perhaps you should consider moving to another division or organisation.

10.	Make an effort to remember your boss’ wives and life partners’ names.

By Elsabé Manning

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The Greenpepper Enterprise Award is awarded to South African companies that excelled in their industries, created economic growth or new job opportunities for the people of South Africa.

Success Factory won
The 2006 Mijima Award!

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