It's good to be across both your team needs and client demands, so you are aware of how you can serve both aspects. While client demands are important, it's also important to look after your people's wellbeing as they are the ones who are meant to deliver the work for the client. Create an environment where the team is able to thrive and give it their best. As you serve, support and nurture your people, you'll find that they start looking after your clients. Where there is conflict between the two aspects, think of a win-win scenario for both. Leaders are often guilty of prioritising client demands at the expense of team's wellbeing, which doesn't pay off in the long term.

Finding the right balance between client and the team is challenging. As a leader its a good practice to get both sides to communicate and express their concerns openly and facilitate come to a solution that is satisfactory to both sides. Remind the client that the importance of keeping the team motivated in benefit of the project. Reset expectations as needed that considers the team concerns to make sure the project is not jeopardized and the client is informed.

As a servant leader, finding the right balance between team needs and client demands starts with active listening. I would engage both my team and clients to understand their perspectives, ensuring everyone feels heard. It’s crucial to prioritize the well-being of my team, as their engagement directly impacts the quality of client service. I would seek to align client expectations with the team’s capacity, proposing solutions that meet client needs without overwhelming my team. By fostering a culture of transparency and collaboration, we can creatively address challenges, ultimately building stronger relationships and ensuring sustainable success for both the team and the client.

Balancing team needs with client demands? Think of it as walking a tightrope—with grace! Greenleaf’s servant leadership reminds us to serve both the team and clients. Start by communicating openly with both, setting clear, realistic expectations. Northouse encourages empowering your team—let them innovate solutions that serve everyone. And don’t forget to reassess priorities; flexibility is key. When things get tough, remember even Jesus balanced serving His disciples and the crowds. Lead with a servant’s heart, and you’ll find harmony, not a headache. Bonus tip: coffee breaks help too!