In Spring 2024, a survey of 35 participants working in startups across various growth stages was conducted to explore how leadership and followership practices evolve as startups grow. The study found that as startups transition from early stages focused on innovation and risk-taking to later stages emphasizing structure and stability, communication becomes more formalized, and power dynamics shift. These insights help highlight the challenges and strategies startups face in maintaining team collaboration and leadership effectiveness during growth.

According to the Small Business Administration, small businesses, including startups, account for 44% of U.S. economic activity. Additionally, they are responsible for creating two-thirds of net new jobs in the United States. They present an entirely different context to examine both leadership and followership, particularly how leader-follower exchange evolves, as the startup evolves. 

Followership refers to the role and behaviors of individuals within a group or organization who align themselves with a leader and contribute to the achievement of common goals. While leadership often takes the spotlight, followership is an equally essential and dynamic component of any organizational structure. Followership is not a passive role; it involves active engagement, collaboration, and a sense of shared purpose. Successful organizations thrive when there is a balance between effective leadership and followership, with both roles contributing to the overall success and well-being of the group and organization.

More information will be posted on this page as the research is published. For questions, please contact the researcher: Dr. Leah Sciabarrasi ([email protected]).

This study was approved by the Institutional Review Board (IRB) of Excelsior University 2/2024. The study is expected to conclude in June 2024.