The Four Needs of Followers: What People Want from Their Leaders
Leadership shapes every aspect of modern life, from workplaces to politics. Modern leaders encounter intricate and significant challenges, including climate change, conflict, and the rise of artificial intelligence. Their decisions have a direct impact on the lives of those they lead. In this ever-evolving landscape, it is essential for leaders to recognise what drives people to follow them.
Gallup's latest study across 52 countries confirms that people follow leaders who fulfil their core psychological needs. First identified in 2005, these four needs have remained consistent even after two decades.
4 Needs of Followers
Hope: The number one need. People want leaders who provide clarity, optimism, and a vision for the future. This need is especially strong among younger generations and in workplaces where direction is crucial.
Trust: Built on honesty, respect, and integrity, trust is the foundation of effective leadership. Leaders who fail to build trust risk losing engagement and credibility.
Compassion: People don’t just follow competence; they follow leaders who care. Empathy, active listening, and emotional intelligence foster deeper connections.
Stability: In times of change, followers seek psychological safety and consistency. Leaders who provide structure and reliability reduce uncertainty and increase well-being.
The 7 Expectations of Successful Leaders
A separate Gallup study highlights seven key leadership behaviours that drive purpose, performance, and engagement:
Build relationships and establish connections with others; share ideas, achieve goals and build trust.
Develop people and help them become more effective by setting clear expectations, encouraging and coaching.
Inspire others through positivity, vision, confidence and recognition.
Communicate clearly by sharing information concisely with purpose and being open to listening.
Lead change and efforts to adapt work that align with the new vision.
Think critically about information and seek to solve problems.
Create accountability by holding oneself and others responsible for performance.
Why This Matters
Gallup’s research finds that leaders who meet these needs help reduce workplace stress and improve overall life satisfaction. Employees, in particular, look to their leaders for hope and trust
Four Simple Steps to Give Followers What They Need
Strengthen relationships – Identify key team relationships that need improvement and take action to build them.
Have meaningful conversations – Schedule weekly check-ins with team members to discuss performance barriers and solutions.
Improve communication – Ask your team what information they need to succeed and how often they need it. Really listen to what they tell you.
Develop awareness – Imagine a camera is recording you at work. What would others see or hear? Are your actions inspiring, motivating, and building trust? Observe team behaviours and respond with compassion.
Final Thoughts
By understanding and addressing these core leadership needs, you can create a workplace where employees feel supported, motivated, and engaged.
Click to view the full report Global Leadership Report: What Followers Want.
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