Most followers today prefer mission control over command and control.
Many young leaders finding themselves in their first position of leadership are biased towards command and control – even if they have had examples of other types of leadership.
Sometimes this is because they are concerned that their followers will not accept their ideas and will present as alienated followers.
Sometimes it is because they feel insecure (even facing imposter syndrome) and want to show others (and themselves) that they are “in control” of the situation.
Sometimes they think that they must make decisions in isolation or based on their own understanding.
But followers today prefer mission control. This isn’t a “do as I say” leadership attitude.
It is a tactical act to let go of the reigns of power and collaborate with followers. It is about giving followers the ability to guide and support decision making.
Maslow tells us that our perception is often guided by the tools we have and understand – he’s the one who wrote “If the only tool you have is a hammer, you then to see every problem as a nail.”
Leaders who choose mission control on the other hand have followers who are partners in the mutual purpose they’ve designed. And they give over command to the follower best suited to guide process.
These followers help create an atmosphere of support and understanding. This lets leadership expand their knowledge and make better decisions. The followers help leaders be curious. And they can give their leaders space to think longer term.
The move from command and control to mission control requires three things:
1. a desire to learn.
2. willingness to change
3. followers who will take responsibility
The first two are solely dependent on the leader.
The last one may depend on the leader, but more often than not depends on the followers. And most followers WANT to be given responsibility and freedom to act.
So, don’t see your position as a command and control leader. Choose mission control and watch your followers accomplish tasks in ways you never imagined possible.
#BeCourageous and give your followers the freedom to determine how to accomplish their mission. Rest on their knowledge and use your leadership time and energy to drive purpose
