An effective follower is both a critical and independent thinker. Characterized by mindfulness and a willingness to act, effective followers are capable of self-management. They are willing to accept responsibility, serve the needs of the organization, challenge authority, participate in change, and even leave the organization when necessary.

Management experts and authorities on organizational behavior agree that the best ways to deal with an inept, absent or micromanaging supervisor are to communicate negotiate and learn by negative example.

Better understanding of caller behavior helped DHL Japan's Mariko Kimura form a strategy to turn a poorly-performing call center around