There has been much written about post-pandemic leadership models, effective post-pandemic leadership strategies, and post-pandemic efforts to return to pre-pandemic days. Little to nothing is being said about those who follow our leadership. What do they need? How do we keep our workforce engaged?
John Maxwell has masterfully taught that leaders should never ask for a hand until they have touched a heart! Simon Sinek stated a similar truth; “Leadership is not about being in charge but caring for those under your charge! Both axioms are true at the same time because the starting premise is not the level of productivity that you can get from a follower, rather, it is the genuine care for those under your charge. In other words, you treat them as human beings not human doings!
In this podcast I am going to discuss the 4 Needs of Followers. Before I can do this, we must revisit the chaos of 2020 to understand why this podcast is of such value. Consider the follow chart.
Abnormal Grieving Process
Social Distancing
Mask Mandates
Shelter in Place
E-Learning for our children
Offices closed until further announcement
Click-Shopping
Worship Centers Shut Down
No Graduation Ceremonies
2020 Abnormalities
YES, our world has been turned on its head! Attempting to return to what we thought we had, is not an effective leadership strategy. All of us collectively have been impacted and stunned by this time period in history. As stated in our previous episode, PURPOSE is a timeless quality and is not disrupted by difficult epics and seasons. Vision on the other hand has time-limitations that are necessary to adapt and change in various seasons.
I want to give you 4 truisms that are not disrupted by epics and seasons of change – they are timeless and always relevant.
TURST – Honest leaders with integrity are always believable and they are in demand. History has recorded periods and epics of fraud and cheating. Yet honesty always shines through the darkness and reveals itself no matter what attempts to repress and tamp down its voice.
COMPASSION – This is a humanitarian issue – Do you know me as a human? This is the single greatest question that has quietly emerged as a result of the pandemic. Do you care about me? Can you help me? Realize people do not quit companies, they quit people!
STABILITY – Your followers need to see a sense of calm, clarity and purposeful resolve in the face of chaos. Are you providing this to your followers? Your stability as a leader is determined by higher purposes that keeps you anchored in the face of chaos.
HOPE – Do your followers see you leading from a posture that points the way forward to better days? Dr Shane Lopez defines Hope as; “the belief that the future will be better than the present, along with the belief that you have the power to make it so.” He goes on to say; “Hope is the leading indicator of success in relationships, academics, career, and business—as well as of a healthier, happier life.”
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Garry Brackett brings his experience as an executive coach and non-profit leadership specialist to every conversation on the Shepherds Advantage Leadership Podcast. This isn't about abstract theory; it's a practical exploration of how leadership principles intersect with faith, culture, and the daily challenges of making a meaningful impact. Garry engages with a diverse range of guests-people who are actively shaping their communities and organizations-to uncover the real-world strategies and personal convictions that drive effective, compassionate leadership. You'll hear discussions that feel like a thoughtful mentorship session, covering topics from organizational health and personal resilience to the spiritual foundations that guide service-oriented work. This podcast serves as a resource for anyone, whether in ministry, non-profit, or broader community roles, who seeks to lead with purpose and integrity. Tune in for authentic stories and grounded advice that equips you to navigate the complex landscape of modern leadership with confidence and clarity.
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