Disney Legend Marty Sklar at the IPMA-HR Western Region conference. One of the original Imagineers working with Walt
Disney in the early 1950s, Marty spoke about the flip side of
leadership, sharing “Mickey’s Ten Commandments” for Followership:
1. SPEAK UP! Great teammates raise issues before decision are made!
2. Never be afraid to ask questions. That’s how we learn our parts – on stage and backstage.
3. Make your experience count (that’s why you’re on the team).
4. Help the rookie succeed – you were “new” once, too.
5. Understand your role – everyone has a job to do.
6. Never fear failure – winners sometimes fail too!
7. But – know when to “take a chance” (and always lets your leaders you’re doing it).
8. Play by the rules. If you disagree, work to change them after the game.
9. Share the joy of success – you didn’t do it by yourself!
10. Support your teammates – at Disney, there’s only one name on the door.
Here are another handful of magical insights I gleaned from his presentation:
– Start a “Clean Page Club” at your office – people who get energized by starting something new.
– People can feel perfection. Pay close attention to detail.
– Define your story. Have the vision of success in mind before you begin.
– Pick the right cast of characters. Awesome actors are the key to a great show.
– Be more than an optimist – be an optimal behaviorist. Do one important thing every day.
Of course, good followers often make great leaders, too.
So what do you think – are you a good follower?