In the wake of the pandemic, the business landscape has transformed dramatically, bringing the leadership abilities of individuals into sharp focus. It’s been observed that “servant leaders,” those who prioritize the growth and well-being of their team members, often thrive in these challenging scenarios.
Regardless of the term we use, leaders who inspire and encourage their teams to excel are usually recognized through their actions – a testament to their character and integrity.
From our experience fostering such servant leadership, we’ve noticed these leaders don’t chase personal glory. Instead, they spotlight their team members, sharing their power for the collective benefit.
Here are six leadership behaviors demonstrated by servant leaders:
1. They prioritize others over themselves.
Great leaders understand that their role is primarily about catering to the needs of their team. They challenge the traditional, top-down management approach that prioritizes profit over people.
In a servant leadership culture, these leaders exhibit selflessness by placing their team’s interests before their own. This shift, while challenging, provides an unparalleled competitive edge. Leaders can manifest this selflessness by dedicating their time, energy, knowledge, and expertise to the growth of others, thereby improving themselves.
2. They are expert listeners.
Active listening is critical for building strong work relationships and achieving exceptional business outcomes. True communication involves more than speaking; it requires full attention and presence.
Although many believe they are good listeners, avoiding interruptions or not finishing others’ sentences can be challenging. This isn’t active listening.
Active listeners immerse themselves in the speaker’s narrative, ask questions with genuine curiosity, and explore conversations for deeper understanding, always considering the other person’s needs. This ties back to the first behavior.
3. They serve their team members.
To elevate your leadership impact, remember that leadership is about serving others and enhancing their potential. To gauge your alignment with servant leadership, ask yourself, “What am I doing daily to improve an employee’s life?” If you aim to empower others to be their best, you’re on the path to exceptional leadership.
4. They Empower Their Teams.
The cornerstone of servant leadership lies in empowering team members to make decisions and take ownership of their work. These leaders don’t merely delegate tasks; they entrust responsibilities and nurture an environment of trust and autonomy. They understand empowerment encourages creativity, innovation, and a sense of investment in the company’s success.
5. They Foster a Culture of Growth.
Servant leaders are deeply invested in their team members’ personal and professional growth. They make it a priority to provide development opportunities, mentorship, and continuous feedback. They recognize that the growth of individuals contributes directly to the organization’s growth.
6. They Lead with Empathy.
Servant leaders lead with empathy, ensuring they understand their team members’ experiences, perspectives, and challenges. This empathetic approach promotes a supportive, inclusive work environment and strengthens connections within the team.
To assess your leadership style, reflect on these behaviors: Are you empowering your team? Are you fostering a culture of growth? Are you leading with empathy? If so, you’re well on your way to embodying the principles of servant leadership.
In the ever-changing business landscape, this leadership style is not only beneficial—it’s vital. By prioritizing your team members’ needs and fostering their growth, you’re building a resilient, adaptive, and loyal team that will thrive no matter what challenges come your way.
If your organization wants to implement a leadership training program, Maximum Accountability is here to help. With our extensive experience working with numerous employees, we have successfully imparted leadership skills and empowered individuals to advance their careers. Reach out to us today and discover how we can assist your team in enhancing their leadership abilities and navigating successful career paths.