A Review of the Literature of the Followership Since 2008

Abstract

Followership continues to be a field of study in the larger field of leadership. In 2008, Ricketson offered an in-depth analysis of the relationship between the variables of leadership styles and courageous followership. Since then, the research has continued to accumulate in attempts to offer new insight on the topic. This article explores the empirical research that has been conducted since Ricketson’s dissertation to determine what new information has been offered and what new conclusions can be reached in this area. In particular, there is widespread agreement on the importance of building the leader–follower relationship in developing effective followers and leaders. This leads to the conclusion that emotional intelligence (EI) plays an important role in the creation of both as it facilitates the establishment of the leader–follower relationship. Future research suggestions are offered as well.