Question

Which of the following statements is true of followership?

a. Followers like working for leaders who have influence with their superiors.
b. Most people are more often leaders than followers.
c. Followership is the sole basis for success in an organization.
d. Followers usually have little control and power in their relationship with the leader.

Answer 1

The correct answer is that followers prefer leaders who can influence their superiors. The relationship between leaders and followers is complex and varies based on individual characteristics and needs. Different leadership styles may resonate differently with followers, depending on the group context.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct statement about followership is that followers like working for leaders who have influence with their superiors. An important aspect of the leader-follower relationship is the employee's need for leadership, which varies among individuals. Autonomous employees may prefer a less structured environment, while those high in need for leadership work best with clear responsibilities and minimal ambiguity. Research within psychology on followership emphasizes the importance of understanding the leader-follower dynamics from both perspectives to comprehend the dynamics more effectively.

Furthermore, the characteristics of followers, such as their degree of extroversion and need for growth, influence their relationship with leaders. Some may prefer a high level of interaction, while others might be less satisfied with leaders who push for growth that does not align with their needs. Therefore, not all leadership styles work well with all types of followers, and training for leaders to accommodate different follower types can be beneficial.

Sociologists recognize that in secondary groups, formal leadership with defined chains of command is common. Leadership functions can be expressive or instrumental, focusing on emotional health or results, respectively. In addition, leadership styles can range from democratic, laissez-faire to authoritarian, each with its own benefits and challenges depending on the group's size and dynamic.

In summary, followership plays a critical role in shaping the leader-follower relationship, thus impacting the success and functioning within an organization. Therefore, understanding and adapting to various followership needs and styles are instrumental for effective leadership.