Servant Leadership: Putting Your Team’s Needs First

Leadership is often viewed from a top-down perspective, where the leader directs and makes decisions that shape the team. But there’s another powerful approach—servant leadership. In this leadership style, the leader prioritizes the needs of their team, putting their success and well-being first. It’s about serving rather than being served, and it can lead to more engaged, motivated, and high-performing teams. In this blog, we’ll explore the essence of servant leadership and how leaders can truly support and elevate their teams.

Servant leadership is a leadership philosophy where the leader’s primary goal is to serve others. The idea is simple yet powerful: Instead of focusing on how the leader can gain power or recognition, the leader focuses on empowering and lifting their team. The term was coined by Robert K. Greenleaf in 1970, and it emphasizes qualities like empathy, listening, stewardship, and humility.

A servant leader seeks to remove obstacles for their team and encourages growth, both professionally and personally. By prioritizing the needs of others, servant leadership fosters a work environment built on trust and respect.

Key Principles of Servant Leadership

Empathy: A servant leader listens and understands the concerns and challenges of their team. They connect with team members on an emotional level, showing that they truly care about their well-being. This empathy helps to build trust and loyalty, creating a supportive work environment where people feel heard and valued.

Listening: Listening actively is crucial in servant leadership. A leader should take the time to truly hear what their team members are saying, both in formal meetings and informal conversations. By listening attentively, the leader shows that they value input from their team and are open to feedback and suggestions.

Stewardship: Stewardship involves taking responsibility for the organization and its resources, as well as taking care of the team. A servant leader acts as a caretaker, ensuring the well-being of their team and the long-term success of the organization. This means making decisions with a view toward the long-term benefits for everyone involved, not just immediate gains.

Humility: Humility is at the core of servant leadership. A servant leader doesn’t place themselves above others but recognizes that leadership is a service to the team. They’re willing to step back, share credit, and allow others to shine. This creates a more collaborative atmosphere where the team feels empowered to contribute their best.

Commitment to the Growth of People: A servant leader is dedicated to the development and growth of their team. This could mean offering opportunities for learning, providing mentorship, or helping team members achieve their personal and professional goals. When a leader invests in their team’s growth, they cultivate a culture of continuous improvement and mutual success.

Building Community: A servant leader works to create a sense of community within the team. They encourage collaboration, foster a culture of mutual support, and promote positive relationships among team members. A strong sense of community helps to build cohesion and enhances team performance.

The Benefits of Servant Leadership

Increased Trust and Loyalty: When leaders put their team’s needs first, it builds trust. Team members feel valued and supported, which strengthens their loyalty to the leader and the organization. This trust is the foundation for high performance, as individuals are more likely to go the extra mile when they feel supported.

Enhanced Collaboration: Servant leadership encourages open communication and collaboration. Leaders who listen and encourage feedback foster an environment where team members feel comfortable sharing ideas and working together toward common goals. This collaborative spirit often leads to better problem-solving and innovation.

Improved Team Morale: Teams led by servant leaders tend to have higher morale. When employees know their well-being is a priority, they feel more motivated and engaged in their work. This positive atmosphere can lead to higher productivity and job satisfaction.

Increased Employee Development: By focusing on the growth of their team, servant leaders create an environment where team members can thrive. Through mentoring and coaching, employees are empowered to develop new skills and take on new responsibilities. This leads to a more skilled and capable workforce, benefiting both the individual and the organization.

Stronger Organizational Culture: Servant leadership helps create a positive organizational culture that values trust, collaboration, and mutual respect. Teams led by servant leaders are more likely to work cohesively, fostering a culture of accountability and innovation. This kind of culture attracts top talent and helps retain the best employees.

How to Practice Servant Leadership

Lead with Empathy: Take the time to understand the personal and professional challenges your team members face. Show them you care about their well-being and support them in overcoming obstacles.

Encourage Growth: Be intentional about helping your team develop new skills and progress in their careers. Offer training, mentorship, and constructive feedback to help them grow.

Share Power and Responsibility: Empower your team by giving them the authority to make decisions and take on leadership roles within the team. Trust them to handle responsibilities, and provide support when needed.

Be Available: Make yourself approachable and available to your team. Listen to their concerns and provide guidance when necessary. By being accessible, you foster a sense of trust and openness within the team.

Celebrate Successes: Recognize and celebrate the achievements of your team, no matter how big or small. Sharing credit for successes builds morale and shows that you value their contributions.

Servant leadership is a powerful and compassionate way of leading. It’s about putting your team’s needs first and supporting them in achieving success. When leaders serve their teams, they create a work environment where trust, collaboration, and growth thrive. The result is a more motivated, engaged, and high-performing team that can overcome challenges and achieve great things.

“Leadership is not about being in charge. It’s about taking care of those in your charge. When leaders focus on serving their teams, everyone wins.”