Followership - Essay Example

Learn to Lead by Following: Michael Frisina The convincingly argues that a leader can never be effective if there are no followers. “If you think you are leading and no one is following you, then you are just having a nice walk” (Frisina 2005). His argument builds the understanding that leadership is not just a position of authority, but a position of positive influence. In addition, the author also differentiates between the five different types of followers (‘yes people, sheep, survivors, alienated followers, and effective followers’) (Frisina 2005).

Among the five of them, effective followers have interpersonal skills that seek understanding before being understood. The author points out that leaders and followers have a symbiotic relationship. According to the author, “Today’s followers are tomorrow’s leaders” (Frisina 2005) Leaders ought to practice democratic leadership that strengthens the relationship with the followers.ReferenceFrisina, M. (2005). Learn to lead by following. Nursing Management (Springhouse), 12-12.8 Inter- and Intra-Generational Communications The author distinguishes the value of communication to the four types of generations (veterans, baby boomers, Generation X, and Generation Y).

According to the author, employees in Generation Y thrive on extrinsic motivation. For example, a young nurse would most likely be tensed and have minimal experience in attending to her duties. If the supervisor provides instant gratification and rewards the nurse, she would be extrinsically motivated to work. This is unlike the veteran and baby boomers that have the experience and have achieved job satisfaction. This category of employees thrives on intrinsic motivation and job security. Different generations have different characteristics.

For example, a veteran may find it easier to work in the office for the entire working hours. On the other hand, an employee from generation Y would prefer doing field work for the entire working hours. It is important to delegate jobs depending on the general characteristics of the respective generation. The most important aspect of communication is the mode of delivering information. All the four generations prefer different modes of communication. Veterans would be more comfortable with face-to-face interactions while employees from both Generations X and Y would prefer communication backed by technology.

For example, a healthcare facility would open up a page on social media to reach out to the younger generation. On the other hand, veterans would prefer to visit the facility physically for assistance.ReferenceSigma Theta Tau International. (n.d.). 8 Inter- and Intra- Generational Communication.