Why do leaders lead from the back?

Leading from the back is a new leadership style that gained popularity in 2011. It differs from the conventional top-down management structure in which the leaders provide explicit instructions to direct subordinates on how to complete their jobs. The concept is similar to a shepherd who tends a flock. Bill Gates said that "Leaders shouldn't try to make every decision, but provides strategy, direction, and tools to the employees to enable them to gather information and insights. Great leaders leave the "how" to their people for them to work collectively towards success. Google is adopting this management style to encourage employees from various teams to express ideas and foster innovative solutions.