Followership

“As a diversity, equity, and inclusion leader, I appreciate the authentically transparent approach in this book. Each chapter drew me in, compelling me to reflect upon my understanding of followership as experienced throughout my life and in observations of others. This book will both challenge and equip you to be a better follower and leader within and beyond the workplace, across human differences, and throughout different life stages.”


—Rhae-Ann Booker, vice president of diversity, equity, and inclusion, University of Michigan Health-West





“Timmermans has a history of effective leadership in multiple organizations; based on this history, he could have written yet another leadership book. Instead, he gives his attention to the vital corollary of leadership—the wisdom, even when in leadership, of following well. This is a wise and winsome book, with lessons for followers and leaders alike.”


—Claudia Beversluis, professor and provost emerita, Calvin University





“I’ve read many books on leadership. But Steven Timmermans is the only author I know who has written on ‘followership.’ And this is not about old, hierarchical forms of submission. Rather, Steve illumines what it means to be a committed, discerning follower in today’s church and society. Here’s a refreshing, insightful look at a topic no one writes about but everyone practices: following.”


—Wesley Granberg-Michaelson, general secretary emeritus, Reformed Church in America





“Any book authored by Steve Timmermans, a respected educational and denominational leader, has my attention. Here readers will find a refreshing contrast to the emphasis typically found in leadership literature on the role of the individual leader; instead, Timmermans offers fresh thinking and an upside-down-kingdom perspective on how Spirit-led followers can contribute to individual and societal well-being amidst the complexities of our day.”


—Karen A. Longman, professor of higher education, Azusa Pacific University





“As a president of an academic institution I read extensively in the literature about leadership. Now I wish I could also have read Steve Timmermans’ wise book. He not only shows how effective leadership must be grounded in discerning followership—he does it in a winsome manner that draws on compelling life experiences!”


—Richard J. Mouw, president emeritus, Fuller Theological Seminary