I hear and read a lot about leadership.  I see much less about followership.  We need more training on the latter.

Followership means that you understand that you are not the leader on this project, part, segment or meeting.  That means you have switched from the role of leader to the role of contributor.  It is not a demotion.  It is simply your part for some designated time.  You can be a great follower by contributing ideas, talent and support.

I notice that certain people have big problems being a follower.  They give decreased support and talent to projects that they are not running.  They don't want projects that they aren't leading to succeed in the way that their projects might succeed.  They are a destructive force.

More time should be spent on followership skills.  Good followership means:

Understanding who the decision-maker is.

Assisting with decisions so that the best decision is made. 

Disagreeing when necessary but constructively.

Providing the best information and advice you have to the leader of the project so that it stands the best chance of success.

Helping the leader who might be struggling with frank discussion outside of the public setting unless forced into a public defense of your criticism.

Accepting the responsibility given to you rather than suggesting what others might do better.

Supporting the final decision.