It is difficult to be a good leader if you haven’t been, and don’t continue to be, a good follower.

First, most leaders are following and reporting to someone, whether that is a boss or a board. If those leaders can’t follow their leaders well, they won’t be in a position to lead others for long. If you want to continue to lead, be a good follower.

Second, being a good follower provides an opportunity to learn leadership from others. Pay close attention and ask yourself questions about those you are following:

What do they do well? What do they do poorly?
What do they do that you like and dislike?
What do they do that makes it easy for you to follow them and get your work done?
What do they do that makes it difficult for you to follow them and get your work done?
Do you respect them? Why or why not?
Do you trust them? Why or why not?

The performance of the team is a reflection of the leader, so ask:

How does the team perform?
How does the team respond to them?
How does the team work with one another and with other teams?
How does the leader run group meetings? Individual discussions?
How does the leader provide feedback?
How does the leader handle conflict?

Answering these questions about the leaders you are following allows you to put together a picture of what character traits and skills you want to possess and practice as a leader.

Good leaders come in all shapes, sizes, backgrounds, and personalities. Observing this is freeing because it means you don’t have to try to be like someone else! Are there fundamental character traits and competencies you need to lead well? Yes, but you can be yourself and be a good leader.

Third, being a good follower will make it easier for you to understand what to expect from others when you are leading.

Below are a few quick thoughts on what it looks like to follow well. Any leader would love to have someone on their team who strove to do the following:

• Be on time.
• Work hard, do good work, and finish your work on time.
• Be pleasant to be around.
• Support the success of the team.
• Be proactive, not passive.
• Take ownership and responsibility, don’t blame and make excuses.
• Be honest, ask questions, and share your ideas, but once a decision is made, support the decision.
• Communicate any roadblocks and problems to your boss (no surprises).
• Don’t grumble, complain, or gossip. If you have a problem, share it with your boss.

This is a leadership fundamental: If you want to be a good leader, learn to be a good follower.

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