Episode 69 - Followership in Leadership

Leader Up host Mr. David Howey and AMSC’s Mr. Gary Hisle discuss an underreported topic—Followership. Gary brings his extensive experience from his 30-year active-duty career in the Army, where he served in various leadership and followership roles along with his decade of teaching leadership development. Together, they unpack the layers of followership, its significance in the Army, and how it contributes to effective leadership and mission accomplishment.

The two delve into the essence of followership, highlighting that it’s not about being passive but about understanding and fulfilling roles effectively. The episode explores the reciprocal relationship between followership and leadership, emphasizing that one must know how to follow to lead well. Gary discusses four different types of followers—resources, individualists, implementers, and partners—and their roles within an organization. They also touch on the importance of mission command, trust, and the ethical responsibilities of followers.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Army Doctrine Publication 6-22

“The Courageous Follower” by Ira Chaleff

“Followership” by Barbara Kellerman

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To learn more about the Army Management Staff College, visit our website at: https://armyuniversity.edu/amsc