Research has revealed that followers contribute 80 per cent to the success of the organization, while the leader only contributes a more 20 per cent, Followers should be valued and held accountable for the success of any group while their leaders should be rewarded for encouraging the followers to reach their full potential.
There is no leader without at least one follower,In organizations, the focus has to tangibly shift from leader- centric development to follower- centric development and this is a huge change of mindset for any organization.
Indians are good followers because of our inherent respect for hierarchy and rank- the HR department should strive to build upon this aspect. Total commitment to corporate strategy in form and spirit has to be cultivated top- down and the HR department can do a lot to cultivate effective followers.
To strengthen followers, there are a few things that are critical and need to be effectively implemented.
A shared vision between the leaders and followers, alignment of the organizational goals to the individual’s providing followers with the right tools and techniques to enable high performance.
An open communication line, across the organization to facilitate sharing of knowledge and ideas.
Enable followers to support and confront leaders on what is right for the organization; encourage initiative and provide platforms for them to express their views/opinions/perspectives.
Active involvement of leaders in grooming followers to become future leaders and reinforce the right behaviors through appropriate recognition and reward mechanisms.
Mohan says, “Creating a mentor-mentee culture aids the process of following. HR should work towards creating such ecosystems with in the organization. A ‘formally informal’ environment to drive in idea of effective following. A more culturally sensitive. One needs to challenge the followers; do not assume that their contribution has to be driven by the leader. They will have ideas and potential that needs to be tapped through proper forums and platforms. Companies must enable the growth of followers by giving them responsibilities that commensurate with their capabilities.