I haven't updated this in ages, but from now on, all my culture shock posts will also be here. Read on:
As a member of a club's executive board, I've been critical of leadership lately and what it takes to be an effective leader. Leaders face many challenges, and for their commitment I give them my respect and major eProps. However, some leaders just don't get it. And by it, I mean they don't realize that it takes the commitment of the follower to accomplish the task or movement (I know I'm not being specific, but my generalization is applicable to many groups). There is a difference between command and execution, between telling someone to do something and getting them to do it. Leadership is a collaborative effort.
When it comes to executive membership, I'd like to apply game theory to my reasoning. Every member has the option to defect from their duties. Of course, if you've chosen a leadership position, you should care about your job because your work ethic determines your credibility. E-board members should work for the best interests of the club because its best interests should advance their own goals. But not all members choose to cooperate because let's get real; you have the choice to sit on your lazy butt and not do anything. (That's when an overarching police force comes in handy).
But I'm digressing from my point, that is leaders should not force. And no one should carry that attitude that everyone is going to defect in their own interest. So leaders, what's the best way to guarantee a following?
Bring each other to an equal level. Machiavelli once said, "It is better to be feared than loved, if you cannot be both." I disagree. It's better to be respected than all else. Earn respect through example, and the best way to gain respect is to be Aretha Franklin. I kid. But I know you are smart enough to know where I was going with that.
Mutual respect is the catalyst that galvanizes movement. Leaders, cherish your followers. Followers, recognize your gravity.
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