Hiske Kuilman

Imagine this. A charismatic speaker stands on a stage. He has a grand vision, a compelling story and a room full of people hanging on his every word. He receives a standing ovation. But the next day, everyone does exactly what they were doing before. So what has he actually set in motion? We are fascinated by leaders. By people who dare to lead the way, inspire others and bring about major change. We write books about them, study their behaviour and invest heavily in leadership development. But in doing so, we very often overlook one group: the followers. Because without people who decide to come along, even the most beautiful story remains nothing more than a story. Why do we follow in the first place? What makes us commit to a person, an idea or a shared ambition? And why do we get moving for one person but not another? As a speaker mentor, Hiske Kuilman has spent years exploring how to move people with words. Then she shifted her attention from the person on stage to the people in the room. Because perhaps we only truly understand leadership when we understand why people follow. She explores what leads people to trust someone, believe in something and commit to a shared direction. And she shows that followership is about much more than obeying or trailing behind someone. It is about trust, connection, critical thinking and the responsibility we each carry for whom and what we follow. With relatable examples, surprising insights and interaction, she holds up a mirror to her audience. Because we are all followers. Even the leaders among us. Her talk challenges leaders and employees alike to look differently at their own role and influence. Because those who follow are not powerless. You have an influence on which ideas become reality, which changes succeed and which leaders are given the room to lead the way. From following without thinking to contributing consciously. Because real change comes not only from the person leading the way, but also, and especially, from those who decide to come along. Are you organising an event, conference or leadership day, and would you like your audience to look at leadership from a completely different perspective? I would love to hear from you. (Send an email to hiske@hiskekuilman.nl) Because you can only lead well when you know why people follow.