Leadership isn't about power—it's about serving others and inspiring growth.
Rohan is the CEO of a mid-sized IT firm in Bangalore. Rohan's company was going through a tough time, with several projects delayed and employee morale at an all-time low. Instead of cracking the whip or passing the buck, Rohan decided to take a different approach. He started spending more time on the shop floor, listening to his employees' concerns and helping them solve problems. He made sure to recognize and reward their efforts, no matter how small.
Slowly but surely, the company started to turn around. Projects were completed on time, and employee satisfaction soared. Rohan's employees began to see him as a leader who genuinely cared about their well-being, rather than just being a boss who barked orders.
Rohan's story is a great example of what it means to be a servant leader. Servant leadership is a leadership approach that flips the traditional script on leadership. Instead of focusing on power, prestige, and personal gain, servant leaders prioritize the needs of their team members, customers, and community.
They believe that their role is to serve others, rather than to be served. In this article, we'll explore what it means to be a servant leader, and provide practical tips on how to cultivate this leadership approach.
What is Servant Leadership?
The concept of servant leadership emerged from Robert K. Greenleaf's influential 1970 work "The Servant as Leader." At its core, this leadership philosophy flips traditional power dynamics - instead of team members serving their leaders, servant leaders focus on serving their teams. These leaders measure their success not through personal achievements, but by the growth and wellbeing of those they lead.
They work to build up others, foster a collaborative environment, and create lasting positive change in both their organizations and wider communities. The key distinction of servant leaders is their motivation: rather than seeking status or acclaim, they are driven by a genuine commitment to helping others reach their full potential.
To put this philosophy into practice, let's explore what makes servant leaders stand out from traditional leaders.
5 Key Traits of Servant Leaders
So, what are the key characteristics of servant leaders?
I have listed out important ones⤵️
They put others first: Servant leaders prioritize the needs of their team members, customers, and community. They believe that their role is to serve others, rather than to be served.
They listen actively: Servant leaders are good listeners. They listen actively to the needs and concerns of others, and respond in a way that is empathetic and supportive.
They empower others: Servant leaders believe in empowering their team members to take ownership and make decisions. They provide the necessary resources and support to help their team members succeed.
They are humble and authentic: Servant leaders are humble and authentic. They recognize that they don't have all the answers, and are willing to learn from others.
They lead by example: Rather than just dictating expectations, these leaders model the behavior and work ethic they wish to see in their teams. They demonstrate their values through their own actions, setting a clear standard by personally embodying the principles they advocate for.
Now that you're familiar with these characteristics, you might be wondering: "If I want to build these qualities into my leadership approach, where do I begin?"
How to Become a Servant Leader
Here are 5 practical tips to become a servant leader ⤵️
Start by listening: Start by listening to the needs and concerns of your team members, customers, and community. Ask open-ended questions, and respond in a way that is empathetic and supportive.
Empower others: Empower your team members to take ownership and make decisions. Provide them with the necessary resources and support to help them succeed.
Lead by example: Lead by example. Model the behavior you expect from others, and demonstrate a commitment to serving others.
Be humble and authentic: Be humble and authentic. Recognize that you don't have all the answers, and be willing to learn from others.
Prioritize the needs of others: Prioritize the needs of others. Put the needs of your team members, customers, and community ahead of your own needs.
While implementing these practices requires dedication and commitment, the rewards of servant leadership are well worth the effort. Let's explore the tangible benefits that organizations can expect when they embrace this leadership philosophy.
4 Benefits of Servant Leadership
Here are some significant benefits of servant leadership:
Increased employee engagement: Servant leadership can lead to increased employee engagement and motivation. When employees feel that their leader is committed to serving them, they are more likely to be engaged and motivated.
Improved customer satisfaction: Servant leadership can also lead to improved customer satisfaction. When leaders prioritize the needs of their customers, they are more likely to provide excellent service and build strong relationships.
Increased trust and loyalty: Servant leadership can lead to increased trust and loyalty among team members and customers. When leaders demonstrate a commitment to serving others, they build trust and loyalty.
Better decision-making: Servant leadership can also lead to better decision-making. When leaders listen to the needs and concerns of others, they make more informed decisions.
The Last Word: Embrace the Path of Servant Leadership
Servant leadership is a powerful approach to leadership that can lead to increased employee engagement, improved customer satisfaction, increased trust and loyalty, and better decision-making. By prioritizing the needs of others, listening actively, empowering others, and leading by example, leaders can become servant leaders and make a positive impact on their organization and community.
Remember that becoming a servant leader is a journey, not a destination. It requires patience, dedication, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact on others' lives.
As we look to the future of leadership in an increasingly complex and interconnected world, the principles of servant leadership become more relevant than ever. By putting others first and focusing on growth and empowerment, servant leaders don't just build better businesses – they help create a better world.
Not Sure About Your Next Step?
Do you want to get better at what you do as a leader? Or you would like to lead your team more effectively and don't know WHAT do about it. Find the right coach to help you figure out the answer.
Book a Complimentary Strategy Session to discuss your career situation and clear a crystal-clear vision of your dream career. Take the first step to create a career you will love.
Smita D Jain is a Certified Executive Coach, Personal Empowerment Life Coach, and NLP Practitioner. Smita’s ‘Empower Yourself’ Executive Coaching Programs enable introverted executives to speak with confidence and communicate with impact so that they emerge leaders faster than envisaged. Smita's Empower Yourself blog has been featured in Feedspot's list of Top 25 Indian Life Coach Blogs You can learn more about Smita’s ‘Empower Yourself’ Coaching Programs by visiting www.lifecoachsmitadjain.com, and book a complimentary strategy session with her at https://www.lifecoachsmitadjain.com/booking.
Comments