Mission Possible

Do you know what the mission statement of your organization says and the meaning behind it? This is an important part of being an effective follower. If one is entrenched within an organization day in and day out, he or she should look to the mission statement to guide them through the day...even if they are not feeling it is being lived out by those above them. Followers play an important part within the framework of the organization by completing the tasks set out for them by the leader. In turn, the follower gives feedback on the process to the leader, causing the completion of a feedback wheel. Ira Chaleff talks about this concept as an "action circle". Here is his explanation: "Leaders and followers form an action circle around a common purpose. You can’t have effective leaders without responsive followers.” this means that both parties have to strive to be a part of the mission statement. This is how a follower can be a leader right where he or she is at and uphold the mission statement with each task. This is easier said than done. How can an individual serve an organization that does not serve them? How can a follower sit idle and let decisions be made that are hindering the organization rather than helping it?

There are a couple reasons why a follower should stand up and challenge a leaders decision, without challenging the leader. The first situation would definitely involve ethical grounds. There is a term in the military called, "duty to disobey". This means that if there is an unlawful act being presented by the leader, the person has the right to disobey and say, "No" to a directive. We must note that a good follower does not sacrifice his or her personal integrity or the good of the organization in order to maintain harmony therein. To remain employed and continue to receive a paycheck is not an excuse to take part in unethical or unlawful activity. Daft notes, “…ineffective followers are as much to blame for the recent wave of ethical and legal scandals as are crooked leaders. Followers have a responsibility to speak up when leaders do things wrong.” Do you believe this statement?

Your answer to that question should be your answer in what to do when those situations arise. The second thing that denotes an individual to stand up to their superior is when the decision goes against the mission statement of the organization. An effective follower sees him or herself as a vital part of the organization. They feel a sense of personal responsibility and ownership in the organization and its mission. This is why it is vital to understand and know our mission so it is possible for us to be effective in our followership.