Selfless and Servant Leadership Connects Us All

Robert Greenleaf, the revolutionary in the modern servant leadership movement once said, “The first and most important choice a leader makes is the choice to serve, without which one’s capacity to lead is severely limited.” A selfless leader is one who is a servant first, who puts the needs of others before their own. Fulfilling their hunger for power is the last item on their agenda, if at all it is.

Traditionally, organizations and leaders have always followed the ideology of “the boss is always right”, limiting any connectedness at the ground level and straining communication between the hierarchy. This only pushed the leaders into their own bubble of ego and righteousness, isolating them from the rest of the organization. But as the world around us has changed, with more complexity and uncertainty, nobody has all the answers. Employees expect their leaders to carry themselves with humility, and facilitate conversations instead of adopting a “know it all” attitude.

Now, how can one be a selfless leader?

Truly empowers employees

A service-oriented leader who is receptive to the requirements of the employees would know what would help them carry out their responsibilities to the best of their capabilities. A friendly yet professional work environment helps build trust between employees and the leaders, encouraging employees to put their best foot forward.

Open to innovation and creative vision

When leaders are very aware of their ego shows up in the workplace, it is easier to acknowledge their own humanity and vulnerability.  Such leaders are more likely to keep themselves open to unique suggestions, creative ideas and appreciating talented employees. This gives employees the opportunity to broaden their horizons and grow professionally.

Garners loyalty and creates positive impact

A powerful leader need not always establish their authority to prove themselves. Sometimes, leadership lies in following instead of adamantly saying, “what I say goes”. The ability to let go of the reins creates trust in employees and encourages them to take responsibility. They then provide insight on what works best on the ground level. Group cohesiveness also increases when everybody knows they play an important role in the organisation, creating room for increasing the organisation's potential as a whole.

Reduced employee turnover

Leaders who take charge of serving the company and its employees, first and foremost, ensure that they create an environment that promotes mental and physical well-being. Employees recognize this effort to make working a fruitful experience and are less likely to leave in search of other opportunities. This investment in the workers pays off later by saving the resources of the company in hiring and rehiring.  

The idea of selfless leadership goes hand-in-hand with servant leadership. Employees are enthusiastic to work when they recognize value in a company and the value they can add to it. 

A selfless leader is capable of pushing the workforce towards greater success by creating an employee-centric culture in the organization.