Behavior
Prosocial Leadership
Leadership based on providing benefits to followers rather than through dominance or coercion. Leaders gain influence through helpfulness.
Biological Context
Elephant matriarchs lead through knowledge sharing, not force. Experienced whales guide migration. The best-connected individuals in animal social networks often provide information and conflict resolution. Prosocial leaders are followed because following is beneficial.
Business Application
Prosocial leadership creates voluntary followership. Leaders who primarily benefit themselves face constant resistance; those who genuinely help followers build lasting influence and loyalty.