A crucial moment for any leader is recognizing when it’s time to step back and follow instead of lead. This goes beyond simply deferring to someone with more expertise or passing decision-making power to a more experienced team member. It’s about intentionally forming a team or task force and appointing someone with greater experience in the task as the leader, while taking on the role of follower.
When a leader demonstrates the ability to follow, it profoundly shifts how the team perceives them. The humility, confidence, and self-awareness that come from stepping aside don’t just boost the leader’s credibility—they foster deep trust within the team. There’s no stronger way to build a bond than showing that the team’s success is more important than personal control.
By choosing to follow, a leader sends a powerful message: they can relinquish control when necessary for the greater good. Prioritizing the team over personal comfort is a hallmark of strong leadership. On the other hand, a leader who struggles to step back may lack the understanding of what truly makes for effective team leadership. No single person can possess the deepest knowledge or expertise in every area.
While seeking others' input is valuable, exceptional leaders know when to completely step aside and let others take the lead. In doing so, they show that they are not the sole authority and that leadership is, in fact, a shared responsibility. As a follower, leaders model the kind of teamwork and collaboration they wish to inspire in others.
Followership is an often underappreciated leadership skill. Leaders who believe their effectiveness hinges solely on holding authority need to rethink their approach to leadership. Followers are more critical to leaders than leaders are to followers, which is why it’s so symbolically important when a leader becomes a team member. By doing so, they communicate a clear message: leadership is about serving the team.
Furthermore, no one person can know everything. A true leader surrounds themselves with those more knowledgeable in different subject areas. Great leadership isn’t about being the smartest person in the room, but about surrounding yourself with people who are—and valuing their input.
When was the last time you stepped into the role of a team member on a project? Tomorrow is the perfect time to start.
