Doug Flaig, President of Stratus Building Solutions.
In the high-stakes world of business, where competition is fierce, and success is often measured by bottom-line results, some leaders traditionally relied on an authoritarian style of management. While this ego-driven style can be successful, it can also sow seeds of discord, hinder collaboration and ultimately impede the organization’s progress.
In recent years, many business leaders have begun to recognize the costs of this “do what I say without complaint” philosophy, turning toward more collaborative, employee-centric styles of leadership.
One such style is what’s known as servant leadership. Instead of focusing solely on what benefits the company, leaders who espouse this management philosophy focus on the needs of their customers and employees first.
The theory is that individuals who are respected, valued and nurtured will be happier in their lives and their jobs. This, in turn, will make them more committed to the company and more productive, benefiting everyone. Customers will recognize a company that is committed to their best interests and responsive to their needs. That, in turn, drives loyalty and long-term value for the company.
The History Of Servant Leadership
The idea of leading by serving has been around for thousands of years. Both Buddhism and Christianity were founded on its tenets. In 1970, retired AT&T executive Robert K. Greenleaf coined the term “servant leader” regarding business. Greenleaf believed true leaders were the ones who helped their employees grow rather than simply using their power for their own advancement.
Four basic principles of servant leadership are empathy, active listening, stewardship and flexibility.
Integrating The Principals Of Servant Leadership
Embracing servant leadership starts with integrating its principles into all aspects of one’s life, extending from personal relationships to professional endeavors.
The first step is to listen actively and empathetically, understanding the needs and aspirations of those around you. By doing so, leaders can create an environment of trust and open communication where every voice is heard and valued.
In the context of a career, servant leadership entails recognizing that your success is intertwined with the success of your team. Providing the necessary resources, guidance and mentorship, leaders empower their team members to excel. Moreover, this approach encourages a culture of collaboration and mutual support, where each member’s unique skills contribute to the collective success. A servant leader recognizes that “It’s not about me” but about others’ success.
Modeling Leadership In Your Own Life
Executives who truly subscribe to the servant leadership management style do so both at work and in other aspects of their lives. The whole idea of serving your employees means recognizing them as well-rounded individuals with lives outside the office. If you are putting in so many hours on the job that you don’t have time for your friends and family, you are not modeling a healthy work-life balance.
As seasoned leaders, I think we need to instill a sense of the importance of servant leadership in younger generations. When I was first starting in business, eager to climb the corporate ladder, I asked one of my mentors for advice on what I needed to do to move up in my organization. His answer surprised me. He said: “It’s not about you as a leader. It’s about the people you are leading.” That advice has stayed with me my entire career and has shaped the type of leader I am today.
The Legacy Of Servant Leadership
There’s no question that, as a businessperson, you want your company to not only succeed but also flourish. But success is measured by much more than a profit and loss statement.
To use an example from classic literature, Ebeneezer Scrooge ran a successful business. But his authoritative leadership style not only made his employees miserable but also made Scrooge one of the most despised men in the community, destined to die alone. It wasn’t until he changed his ways and started serving others that he became truly fulfilled.
At the end of the day, it’s about how you want to be remembered—not just as a businessperson, but as a person. Leaders who prioritize the well-being of their team and foster a collaborative environment will leave behind a positive legacy of influence.
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