Being a servant leader can benefit your company
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Mary is a CEO who runs a large organization. She was known for her strict and authoritarian leadership style, which had earned her the nickname "The Iron Lady." Mary believed the only way to get things done was to make all the decisions herself and control every aspect of the business.
However, over time, Mary began to notice her employees were disengaged and unmotivated. They didn't feel valued or heard, and they were often afraid to bring up new ideas or challenges. The company was facing a high turnover rate, and morale was at an all-time low.
One day, Mary attended a leadership conference where she heard about the principles of servant leadership. The idea of putting the needs of others first and creating a positive work environment resonated with her, and she decided to make a change.
Mary began to listen to her employees and actively seek their feedback. She empowered them to make decisions and take ownership of their work, and she provided opportunities for professional development. She also focused on creating a positive work environment that encouraged collaboration and innovation.
Over time, Mary's company has transformed. Employee morale has improved, turnover decreased, and innovation flourished. Mary is now known as a servant leader, and her employees respect and admire her for putting their needs first. The company has become one of the most successful and respected in the industry.
Mary realized that true leadership is not about control, but about serving others and creating a positive impact in the world.
Mary didn't become "soft"
By becoming a servant leader, Mary did not become"soft" or lack assertiveness. In fact, she became stronger and more decisive, while also putting the needs of others first. Servant leadership is not about being passive or avoiding conflict. It's about creating a work environment that prioritizes collaboration, trust, and mutual respect.
Servant leaders make decisions that are in the best interests of their employees, customers, and other stakeholders, and they are not afraid to take bold actions to achieve their goals. They are assertive, but also compassionate and understanding, and they seek to create a work environment that supports the well-being and growth of all those they serve.
Mary is not afraid to hold employees accountable for their actions and decisions. She sets clear expectations and provides constructive feedback to help employees grow and develop. Mary is firm but fair. She seeks to balance the needs of the organization with the needs of individuals.
The word "servant" has its origins in the Latin word "servare," which means "to keep, preserve, or guard." Mary has taken this to heart and it's now part of her leadership style.
How to be like Mary
Want to adopt your own servant leadership in your organization but don't know where to start? Here are a few ideas:
- Empower and support employees: Encourage and empower employees to take on new challenges and responsibilities, and provide the resources and support they need to succeed. Show genuine interest in their personal and professional growth, and help them to develop the skills and knowledge they need to reach their goals.
- Listen actively: Be open to feedback and listen attentively to the needs and opinions of others. Encourage open and honest communication and make time to listen to employees, customers and other stakeholders.
- Lead by example: Demonstrate servant leadership behaviors in your own actions, and encourage others to do the same. Lead by example and set a positive tone for the entire organization.
- Focus on the needs of others: Put the needs of others first. Make decisions based on what is best for employees, customers, and other stakeholders. Consider the impact of your decisions on others, and strive to create a work environment that supports their well-being and growth.
- Create a positive work environment: Foster a positive and supportive work environment that encourages collaboration, creativity, and growth. Celebrate successes, recognize and reward employees for their contributions, and provide opportunities for professional development. By creating a positive work environment, you can help to build a culture of servant leadership that benefits everyone.
Your legacy
Why an article on servant leadership from a life coach who specializes in people who are approaching "retirement" age?
Because you will not be a leader in your current organization forever. One day you will step down. That will mean change and change is rarely an easy process, especially for a team of leaders. The more of a servant leadership style you promote, the easier you can make your transition. And those who come after you will thank you for it.
 | Scott Couchenour has a combined 30 years of experience in ministry, business and entrepreneurship. He has the perspective any leader needs to grow further in their personal and professional life. Scott served as COO and CEO for a national multi-million dollar family-owned business. He has served in his local church as worship leader and various leadership positions. He serves as Trustee on the Nazarene Foundation Board, the Nazarene Theological Seminary Board, and Harmony Village Board. Learn More » |
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