Last updated on Aug 8, 2024

Your team questions your leadership style. How can you demonstrate servant leadership effectively?

When your team questions your leadership style, it's a pivotal moment to reflect and demonstrate the principles of servant leadership. This approach, coined by Robert K. Greenleaf, focuses on the growth and well-being of people and the communities to which they belong. As a servant leader, your primary goal is to serve others by prioritizing their needs and helping them develop and perform as highly as possible. If you're facing skepticism, it's crucial to embody the servant leadership qualities effectively to rebuild trust and guide your team to success.

1 Listen Actively

Active listening is the cornerstone of servant leadership. When your team challenges your approach, take the time to listen deeply to their concerns without interrupting or becoming defensive. By showing that you value their opinions and are willing to hear them out, you create an environment of mutual respect. Remember, listening isn't just about silence while others speak; it's about understanding the message behind the words and responding empathetically. This can lead to a more cohesive team dynamic and a clear understanding of how to support your team's needs.

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NDIFREKE INYANG

AGILE PROJECT MANAGER SPECIALIST (M.Sc., PMP Certify, GenAI for PM, SAFe Scrum Master (6.0), PSM 2, PSM 1, PSPO 1)
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Effective servant leadership involves actively listening to and empowering the team, providing resources, and supporting their growth and well-being. I will lead by example with integrity and accountability, create a collaborative environment, and offer constructive feedback. Make inclusive decisions with team input, show genuine care for their well-being, build trust, and admit mistakes consistently. By facilitating problem-solving and supporting autonomy, I will foster a supportive and motivating environment for my team to thrive.

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2 Empower Others

Empowering your team is a key aspect of demonstrating servant leadership. This means giving them the autonomy to make decisions and the resources they need to succeed. Encourage your team members to take ownership of their work and contribute ideas. When they feel supported and trusted, they're more likely to engage in creative problem-solving and take initiative. This not only fosters a sense of confidence within your team but also shows that you're committed to their growth and success.

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Arpan Roy

Leadership SME, Helping Emerging Leaders and Middle Managers Lead with Impact, Industry Mentor, International Speaker, Amazon best-selling author, Award winning Facilitator
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It’s understandable when people question something that may not be familiar with. While people are getting familiar with servant leadership gradually, there may be a lot of people who may not be able to visualise how it can be effective, especially when they are used to a command and control style approach. As you work on your approach to empower people, you start having a positive impact that is sustainable over the long term. As people thrive in their roles, they become advocates of your approach. After all, people model and follow what works.

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3 Lead by Example

Your actions speak louder than words when it comes to leadership. To effectively demonstrate servant leadership, model the behavior you want to see in your team. Be the first to arrive and the last to leave, show humility in success and accountability in failure, and treat every task, no matter how small, with importance. Your team will notice and often mirror this dedication, leading to a stronger work ethic and a more harmonious workplace.

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Nader Farrokh

Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA)
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Display a positive attitude, enthusiasm, and commitment to the group's goals and vision. Be honest, ethical,and consistent in your actions. Show integrity by keeping your word, admitting mistakes,and holding yourself accountable. Take responsibility for your actions and decisions.Acknowledge when you make a mistake and work towards finding a solution. Encourage collaboration and teamwork by actively participating in group activities, sharing responsibilities,and supporting others. Demonstrate a growth mindset by continuously seeking opportunities to learn and improve. Treat others with empathy, respect,and kindness.Show genuine care for your team members. Celebrate achievements. Also, use failures and setbacks as opportunities for learning.

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4 Develop Your Team

Investing in the development of your team members is a testament to your commitment as a servant leader. Provide opportunities for professional growth, such as training sessions or mentorship programs. Show genuine interest in their career aspirations and help them set realistic goals to achieve them. By prioritizing their development, you not only enhance their skills but also contribute to the overall success of your organization.

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5 Share the Vision

A servant leader must also be a visionary, sharing a compelling picture of the future that inspires the team. Communicate your vision clearly and frequently, ensuring that everyone understands their role in achieving shared goals. When your team sees that you are working towards something bigger, that aligns with their values and aspirations, they will likely rally behind you with renewed vigor and commitment.

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6 Nurture Community

Finally, fostering a sense of community within your team can reinforce servant leadership principles. Encourage collaboration and open communication, celebrate successes together, and support each other through challenges. When your team feels like a tight-knit community, they're more likely to trust in your leadership and work together towards common objectives. This sense of belonging can be incredibly motivating and can help to alleviate any doubts about your leadership style.

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Your team questions your leadership style. How can you demonstrate servant leadership effectively?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Listen Actively

2 Empower Others

3 Lead by Example

4 Develop Your Team

5 Share the Vision

6 Nurture Community

Servant Leadership

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Your team questions your leadership style. How can you demonstrate servant leadership effectively?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Listen Actively

2 Empower Others

3 Lead by Example

4 Develop Your Team

5 Share the Vision

6 Nurture Community

Servant Leadership

Rate this article

Thanks for your feedback

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