what do followers expect from leaders

Followers are the backbone of any organization. They play a critical role in achieving the goals and objectives of the organization. However, followers cannot work effectively without good leadership. A good leader understands the expectations of their followers and works to fulfill them. In this article, we will discuss what followers expect from their leaders.

1. Vision and direction

Followers expect their leaders to have a clear vision and direction for the organization. They want leaders who can inspire and motivate them toward achieving the goals of the organization. A good leader must communicate their vision clearly and provide a roadmap for achieving it.

2. Honesty and integrity

Honesty and integrity are essential traits that followers expect from their leaders. They want leaders who are transparent and ethical in their dealings with them. Followers trust leaders who are honest and consistent in their actions and decisions.

3. Support and guidance

Followers expect their leaders to provide them with support and guidance. They want leaders who can mentor and coach them toward achieving their goals. A good leader should be approachable and willing to provide feedback and advice to their followers.

4. Recognition and appreciation

Followers want their leaders to recognize their efforts and appreciate their contributions. They want leaders who acknowledge their hard work and provide feedback and rewards for their accomplishments. A good leader should create a culture of recognition and appreciation in the organization.

5. Accountability

Followers expect their leaders to be accountable for their actions and decisions. They want leaders who take responsibility for their mistakes and learn from them. A good leader should be willing to admit their mistakes and take corrective actions to avoid similar mistakes in the future.

6. Empathy and understanding

Empathy and understanding are critical traits that followers expect from their leaders. They want leaders who can understand their concerns and address them appropriately. A good leader should be approachable and willing to listen to their followers' feedback and suggestions.

7. Communication

Effective communication is essential for any organization's success. Followers expect their leaders to communicate clearly and consistently. They want leaders who can articulate their vision and direction and provide regular updates on the organization's progress. A good leader should encourage open communication and provide feedback to their followers.

8. Transparency

Transparency is a critical trait that followers expect from their leaders. They want leaders who are open and honest about the organization's goals, objectives, and performance. A good leader should provide regular updates and be willing to share information with their followers.

9. Respect

Followers expect their leaders to treat them with respect and dignity. They want leaders who value their opinions and ideas and consider them in decision-making. A good leader should create a culture of respect and inclusivity in the organization.

10. Fairness and consistency

Followers expect their leaders to be fair and consistent in their actions and decisions. They want leaders who treat everyone equally and do not show favoritism. A good leader should ensure that their decisions are based on merit and not personal biases.

In conclusion, followers have specific expectations from their leaders. They want leaders who have a clear vision and direction for the organization, are honest and transparent, provide support and guidance, recognize and appreciate their contributions, are accountable, empathetic, and understanding, communicate effectively, are transparent, respectful, and fair and consistent in their actions and decisions. By fulfilling these expectations, leaders can build trust and inspire their followers toward achieving the goals of the organization.