Defining the Characteristics of Great Leadership

Service. Community. Growth.?

Servant leadership is a selfless leadership approach that puts serving others above all other priorities. Rather than managing for results, a servant leader focuses on creating an environment in which their team can thrive both professionally and personally in order to achieve the highest possible impact deliverables. It's about sharing power, putting the needs of the team first, and helping people develop and perform at their peak. The results will follow naturally from a cohesive team that is self-supporting.

A keen sense of emotional intelligence is vital to being a leader who can collaborate with others to achieve organisational goals. According to research by TalentSmart, 90 percent of top performers in the workplace have a high degree of emotional intelligence, compared to 20 percent of bottom performers. Another study shows that emotionally intelligent leaders are more adept at demonstrating a willingness and ability to change, which in turn, enhances trustworthiness and boosts team buy-in when it comes to change initiatives.

Here are ten servant leadership characteristics that you can practice today (and every day) to enhance your team's wellbeing and output, for remarkable results.??

1. Empowerment. The ability to support others in reaching their full potential. Servant leaders prioritise the growth and development of their team members. They invest in training, mentorship, and continuous learning, fostering a culture of improvement.
2. Standing Back. Prioritising the team and giving credit to their contributions. These leaders think beyond day-to-day tasks. They envision the bigger picture, set long-term goals, and align their team’s efforts with the organisation’s mission and values. Then, they highlight their team's contribution to moving the needle to the rest of the organisation.
3. Persuasion. Rather than relying on authority, servant leaders influence through persuasion. They build consensus, encourage collaboration, and inspire commitment from team members.
4. Authenticity. Genuine in all professional, public and private interactions. Authenticity is foundational to servant leadership. A recent study found that employees’ perception of authentic leadership serves as the strongest predictor of their job satisfaction, organisational commitment, and workplace happiness.
5. Courage. The willingness to take risks, innovate and confront the fears of the team. Leadership can be challenging. When complex business problems arise, servant leaders are prepared to meet them head-on with solutions-focused resilience.
6. Accountability. Holding self and others responsible for their actions. Servant leaders anticipate future challenges and opportunities. They consider the impact of decisions on team members and the organisation, making informed choices and highlighting areas of responsibility.
7. Awareness and Acceptance. Understanding and respecting of others' perspectives. Servant leaders are self-aware and attuned to their team’s dynamics. They understand their own strengths and weaknesses, as well as the team’s needs. This awareness guides their decisions and actions.
8. Stewardship. Practicing service for the greater good of the organisation and community. Servant leaders create a sense of community within their teams. They promote collaboration, trust, and a shared purpose, emphasising the value of each individual.
9. Listening. Effective servant leaders don’t just speak; they actively listen to what their team members have to say. They create ample opportunities for everyone to be heard, paying attention to both verbal and nonverbal cues. Constructive feedback is given, and growth opportunities are understood by gathering insights from all team members.
10. Healing. Effective servant leaders foster a healing environment. They address conflicts, promote emotional wellbeing, and help team members recover from setbacks. Their focus is on creating a positive and supportive atmosphere.

Practicing servant leadership can pay dividends for your organisation and your career. By committing to a leadership development plan that builds your authenticity, resilience, emotional intelligence, self-discipline, and commitment to purpose, you can acquire the skills to lead with bravery and conviction in challenging times, while supporting growth for each member of your team, and leaving a lasting impact on every space you touch.

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