Introduction
Servant leadership is a philosophy of leadership that emphasizes the idea of serving other people as the ultimate objective of leaders. Robert K. Greenleaf introduced it in the 1970s, but it has strong origins in a variety of religious and cultural backgrounds (Eva et al., 2019). In the context of Christianity, servant leadership assumes special importance as it is aligned with the doctrines and attitudes of Jesus Christ. Therefore, it is essential to define what it means to be a servant leader, to identify the concept of servant leadership, to determine whether all believers or Christians are called to be servant leaders, and to describe seven qualities of a servant leader.
Definition
Servant Leadership is a style and method of leadership that stresses the leader’s primary responsibility as a servant to their team or organization. In contrast to the traditional “top-down” view, where managers hold power and influence over their staff, servant leaders emphasize serving the goals of their team participants (Eva et al., 2019). Moreover, they are committed to providing team members with the authority to achieve their potential. Servant leadership is frequently identified with improved employee engagement, increased confidence, and better organizational outcomes. It is a management perspective that values individuals and their potential as the principal drivers of successful outcomes (Eva et al., 2019). However, it is unsuitable for all environments or organizational contexts, and its performance may vary according to circumstances.
Being a Servant Leader
In essence, a servant leader means prioritizing the needs of others and proactively fulfilling those needs while being motivated by compassion, humility, and a true willingness to serve. Servant leaders are not guided by personal energy, pride, or wealth; instead, they are inspired by a strong desire to serve and uplift those they lead (Eva et al., 2019). Servant leadership is also organized around several key values. Firstly, servant leadership is founded on a devotion to serving others (Eva et al., 2019). Servant leaders emphasize the well-being of their people above their own aspirations for power, acclaim, or individual advantage.
Secondly, servant leaders are committed to empowering and uplifting those they lead. They invest in their team leaders’ progress and advancement, helping them reach their full potential. In addition, servant leaders are skilled listeners who actively seek to understand the perspectives, concerns, and ideas of their followers. Their empathetic nature helps establish trust and strengthen relationships across multiple teams (Eva et al., 2019). Finally, servant leaders function with a strong moral and ethical guide. They base their decisions on principles and values, choosing the right decision over the efficient one (Eva et al., 2019). Furthermore, they approach their leadership responsibilities by focusing on their people and the organization’s continued development and well-being through time.
Additionally, Jesus’ life and mission were characterized by acts of service, humility, and self-sacrifice. He cleaned the feet of his followers, treated the sick, and taught his listeners to serve and care for one another (Irving & Strauss, 2019). Christians are invited to imitate his model in their lives and leadership roles.
For instance, in his letters to different Christian communities, the Apostle Paul highlighted the qualities of a servant leader (Irving & Strauss, 2019). He urged the faithful to have the attitude of Christ, to consider others more significant than themselves, and to minister with humility and love. As a result, in the Christian church, leadership positions often include a substantial element of servant leadership.
Pastors, elders, and deacons are generally considered to govern with a servant’s heart, caring for their communities’ practical and spiritual exigencies (Irving & Strauss, 2019). In addition to formal leadership roles, Christians are challenged to model servant leadership in their individual lives. This encompasses serving their families, congregations, and the neighborhood with love, sympathy, and a readiness to help one another.
Seven Qualities for Servant Leaders
Compassion and Empathy
Servant leadership is a leadership philosophy that prioritizes the welfare and advancement of others. It requires leading with grace, compassion, and a deep sense of service. Compassion is a core attribute of a servant leader as it implies the aptitude to identify and connect with the motivations, perspectives, and needs of others (Keith, 2023). A servant leader actively engages in listening to those they guide, striving to comprehend their concerns and happiness. With empathy, a leader can engage with their people on a deeper level, establishing trust and strengthening relations. Empathy empowers leaders to react empathetically to the struggles and aspirations of their constituents.
Humility
Furthermore, humility is a characteristic of servant leading and a quality that leadership professionals must possess. It challenges leaders to accept their own shortcomings, admit mistakes, and avoid the temptation of self-directed behavior. A humble leader does not pursue personal recognition or personal power but instead centers on empowering and elevating others (Keith, 2023). By embracing humility, leaders cultivate an organization where team leaders feel validated and respected, contributing to a mutually respectful environment.
Selflessness
It is worth noting that servant leaders are also equipped with the trait of selflessness and prioritize the well-being of others over personal gain (Keith, 2023). They are prepared to accept sacrifices, contribute time and resources, and prioritize the needs of their team members. Selflessness is a reflection of a shift in focus from one’s own needs and benefits to that of helping others. This characteristic allows servant leaders to establish trust and motivate their teams to accomplish common tasks.
Management
The second essential trait of servant leaders is management; they perceive their role as a leader as a manager, which means they are responsible for developing the potential of those they lead. They realize that someone has been charged with the care and development of their team. Leadership involves guiding, mentoring, and providing opportunities for growth. Servant leaders are passionate about helping their team members thrive and realize their maximum capacity (Keith, 2023).
While service leaders prioritize the difficulties of others, they also have a compelling and clear sense of vision for their organizations or communities. This vision guides their decisions and actions, ensuring that they lead with purpose and direction. The vision of a servant leader is aligned with the betterment of the community, organization, or group they serve (Keith, 2023). It motivates and inspires team members to work together toward a common goal.
Accountability
In addition, accountability is an essential quality for service leaders and is necessary to ensure that tasks are accomplished. They are responsible for their activities, decisions, and liabilities. In addition, they create an environment where responsibility is valued and embedded throughout the organization. By modeling accountability, leaders inspire their team members to be responsible for their work and input, encouraging a culture of accountability and fairness (Keith, 2023). Meanwhile, servant leaders should be active, which requires not just having these qualities in theory but practicing them on a regular basis.
Development of the Qualities
People can develop seven main qualities to become effective servant leaders. Firstly, active listening enables them to give full attention to team members when they speak (Keith, 2023). In addition, such leaders do not interrupt and only try to understand the thoughts of others.
Secondly, they need to demonstrate exemplary behavior, which means modeling the kind of conduct and values that the leader expects from their team (Keith, 2023). Third, leaders should have mentoring characteristics, which encourage the personal development of team members. This will provide growth opportunities and challenge them to realize their potential.
Fourth, servant leaders have to possess effective decision-making capacities. They must involve the team in decision-making and value their contributions. Fifth, leaders can express themselves concisely, ensuring that they clearly inform their team of their aspirations and goals (Keith, 2023). Sixth, servant leaders develop feedback and constantly emphasize team members’ accomplishments to encourage them to keep working hard (Keith, 2023). Seventh, leaders are expected to have the quality of faithful service to others, which means constantly searching for ways to serve their team, organization, or community.
Conclusion
In summary, servant leadership is a leadership philosophy that transcends religious and cultural differences. It is typified by a deep commitment to serving others, humility, empathy, and a focus on long-term well-being. In the wider context of Christianity, servant leadership is consistent with the teachings and example of Jesus Christ, making it a core principle for Christian leaders and believers alike. Although not all Christians are called to formal leadership, the call to be a servant leader extends to all who strive to follow the Christian faith. Therefore, in a world where leadership is often associated with power and authority, servant leadership is a profound reminder of the transformative impact of unselfish service and the ongoing validity of its teachings.
References
Eva, N., Robin, M., Sendjaya, S., Van Dierendonck, D., & Liden, R. C. (2019). Servant leadership: A systematic review and call for future research. The Leadership Quarterly, 30(1), 111-132. Web.
Irving, J. A., & Strauss, M. L. (2019). Leadership in Christian perspective: Biblical foundations and contemporary practices for servant leaders. Baker Academic.
Keith, K. (2023). The case for servant leadership. Terrace Press.
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