Such a great headline from SHRM at the link. I was fortunate to work with several leaders in my career that not only embraced Servant Leadership, but actually wanted to embed the principles into our operating culture. Some get uncomfortable with the topic, believing it a religious imperative because of it’s tie in with Jesus Christ’s words that “Whoever wants to lead among you must first be your servant.” Jesus is not the only one in history to espouse that view but of course he was right. Since it is Holy Week for many, what a great reminder, regardless of the religiosity of Servant Leadership. Maybe Jesus was a great manager in addition to being the Savior.
https://www.shrm.org/topics-tools/topics/what-is-servant-leadership
Others believe it is teaching subservience, but Servant Leadership is about meeting the needs of those you lead, as opposed to their wants. Often it requires courage and fortitude to do so.
Jim Hunter wrote a book called The Servant, a great story with a practical guide to this topic. I strongly recommend it. I was privileged to work with Jim on several occasions, working to implement these principles with up and coming leaders. If you are a student of leadership, add Servant Leadership to your inventory.
