A servant leader seeks to support and empower employees, which in turn makes workers feel valued and increases their vested interest in the success of the company. Instituting a culture of servant leadership is good for the enterprise, its employees, and customers. Here’s why.
Appreciating People
Without people, a business can’t thrive. When employees feel valued, supported, and taken care of, they are more likely to work hard and go the extra mile to help their company be as successful as possible. Employees who feel appreciated, also value an organization’s customers and want to help them get the most of their enterprise’s products or services.
Helping Employees Grow
Business owners can help their employees grow their skill sets in a variety of ways. One way is through career development opportunities; another is through mentorship. Both avenues increase a person’s capabilities, which they can then direct towards their job.
Creating Community
In general, employees spend more time with their co-workers than with their families. A workforce that feels themselves to be an integral part of a team working towards a purpose greater than themselves will enjoy their job more, and in turn, be more productive.
Honest Communication
A leader who is honest in his or her communication and approaches their employees with empathy can build trust and loyalty. This communication style can create goodwill, and rub off on others who can, in turn, offer their co-workers honest, empathetic communication as well.
Offering Guidance
Many employees are self-motivated and want to do the best job possible; however, sometimes they need encouragement and guidance to help steer them in the right direction. When a leader shares his or her time in this way, it builds confidence and empowers people to do their jobs to the best of their ability.
Delegating and Letting Others Lead
Strong leaders are not afraid to hand over responsibility when the situation calls for it. They’re also not hesitant to support employees in their journey to being leaders themselves. An organization needs solid leadership to sustain it over time and give the corporation a competitive edge.
While it’s easy to see my own failings in living up to this standard, servant leadership is a vision of management that’s worth working towards because it asks us to bring our best selves to the table. When we serve by putting another person’s needs first, we access the finest version of ourselves and make real steps towards this vision of supportive, sacrificial leadership that has everyone’s best interests at heart.