Differences and Similarities Between Followership and Servant Leadership

The purpose of this essay is to explain the differences and similarities between followership and servant leadership. Both roles are essential for a squad to build a strong and cohesive team. Each member of a squad has their position. For a squad to accomplish the mission, trust and respect must be mutual. A leader should put their Soldiers' needs before their own. Subordinates must understand what type of followership style works best to complete a given task. Squads that have established roles and guidelines can usually accomplish the most.

Servant leadership explained, is placing the needs of subordinates and seniors above their own (Wesson, 2017). The Army instills the belief of putting the mission first. Servant leadership focuses on the wellbeing of subordinates to ensure a positive environment. Subordinates working with a hostile squad are less likely to complete a task efficiently. Open communication can strengthen a Soldier's relationship with an NCO. Leaders encouraging mutual trust and respect within a squad can expect positive responses from Soldiers. Empathy is another essential characteristic to develop. Leaders must balance having empathy for a Soldier's situation while understanding the mission comes first. The servant leadership style reinforces the Army values and displays all categories of the leadership requirements model.

A squad's success is not only dependent on having proficient leaders. Subordinates that are positive and motivated complete missions rapidly. A Soldier who is noncompliant can create multiple issues within the squad. According to the Curphy-Roellig Followership Model, possessing the four different sections create a proficient follower. The types of followers split into two main categories. These are described as independent or dependent critical thinkers and active or passive personalities. New Soldiers in followership roles usually implement the active dependent critical thinking section. These Soldiers tend to agree and follow instructions without question. As Soldiers earn rank and experience, it is common to see active independent critical thinkers. This type can identify implied tasks and add insight to complete the mission more effectively. All Soldiers should evaluate which method of followership is appropriate to complete a mission.

All Soldiers are encouraged to be a leader at any level. Followership and servant leadership have similarities. The Army values and warrior ethos are part of any foundation for a Soldier. A Soldier in a followership position can still lead from this area. A subordinate showing newer members how to think critically can help the team. Being the example with positivity and motivation to finish a given task, sets a standard. Servant leaders and subordinates have similar guidelines they follow. Both positions put the mission first and treat each other with respect.

Soldiers learning the different traits of followership and servant leadership roles helps the team. Soldiers learning types of followership understands how to listen, learn, and follow effectively. An NCO learning servant leadership style understands caring for Soldiers ultimately takes care of themselves. When a large workload gets tasked to the squad, the NCO is confident in their subordinates. Soldiers that feel respected will accomplish the tasks efficiently.

Works Cited

1. Latour, S. M., & Rast, V. J. (n.d.). Dynamic Followership The Prerequisite for Effective Leadership. Retrieved from https://govleaders.org/dynamic-followership.htm
2. Wesson, C. (2017, March 24). THE NCO. Retrieved August 01, 2019, from https://www.armyupress.army.mil/Journals/NCO-Journal/Archives/2017/March/THE-NCO-ARMY-LEADER/