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A Tale of Two Hygienists

Effective followership: A missing skill in dental hygiene education

Strong dental hygiene programs rely on more than leadership alone. In this episode of A Tale of Two Hygienists, Jessica Atkinson explores how effective followership—grounded in self-management, competence, and courage—supports better leadership and stronger student outcomes.
Nov. 12, 2021

Key Highlights

  • The four essential qualities of an effective follower
  • How followership directly impacts student success
  • Why self-management reduces the need for micromanagement
  • How competence and continuing education build credibility
  • What “courage” looks like in a clinical education setting
  • How leaders and followers function as equal partners
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What does it really mean to be an effective follower in dental hygiene education?

In this episode, Jessica Atkinson shares insights from her recent experience at the RISE Conference for clinical coordinators, hosted by Educators Platform. Drawing on Robert Kelley’s influential research on followership, Jessica explores why strong clinical programs depend not only on leadership—but on engaged, self-directed, and courageous followers.

You’ll learn the four defining traits of effective followers, how they show up in clinical education, and why followership and leadership should be viewed as equal—but different—roles. This episode offers practical reflection for educators who want to strengthen team dynamics, reduce micromanagement, and ultimately support better student outcomes.

 

About the Author

Jessica Atkinson, MEd, BSDH, RDH

Jessica Atkinson, MEd, BSDH, RDH

Jessica Atkinson, MEd, BSDH, RDH, is the COO of Hygiene Edge and an assistant professor of dental hygiene at Utah Tech University. She has been in the dental field for 23 years with experience in the front office, dental assisting, hygiene, and education. Jessica has presented nationally and internationally, is the recipient of the St. George Area Chamber of Commerce Element Award and the Utah Tech College of Health Sciences Outstanding Service Award, is a past president of the Utah Dental Hygienists’ Association, and a member of the ADHA.

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