Here's how you can excel in servant leadership as an executive: key qualities and skills to succeed.

1 Empathy Matters

Empathy is the cornerstone of servant leadership. By genuinely understanding and sharing the feelings of your team members, you create a supportive atmosphere that encourages open communication and trust. This involves actively listening to their concerns, recognizing their efforts, and appreciating their unique perspectives. When you demonstrate empathy as an executive, you're not just managing a workforce; you're nurturing a community of engaged individuals who are more likely to be committed to their roles and to the organization as a whole.

2 Listen Actively

Active listening is a skill that requires full concentration and understanding of the speaker's message. As a servant leader, it's vital to not only hear but also comprehend and reflect on what your team members are saying. This means giving them your undivided attention, acknowledging their input, and responding thoughtfully. Active listening fosters a culture of respect and can lead to more innovative solutions because employees feel their voices are heard and valued.

4 Share Power

Sharing power in a business context means decentralizing authority and empowering your team members to take initiative. As a servant leader, you should foster a sense of ownership among your employees by involving them in decision-making processes and encouraging autonomy. This approach not only motivates your team but also allows for a more diverse set of ideas and solutions to emerge, driving innovation and efficiency.

5 Build Community

Building community within your organization is about creating a sense of belonging and unity among team members. As a servant leader, you should strive to cultivate a workplace where collaboration and mutual support are the norms. This can be achieved through team-building activities, open forums for sharing ideas, or by simply promoting a culture of inclusivity. A strong community spirit can lead to improved morale, better communication, and a more cohesive team.

6 Lead Ethically

Leading ethically is about setting a moral example and making integrity the foundation of your leadership practice. As a servant leader, your actions should align with your values and those of your organization. This means being transparent, fair, and accountable in all your dealings. When you lead by ethical example, you inspire trust and respect from your team, which is essential for long-term success and a positive workplace environment.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?