Servant-First vs. Leader-First Leadership

Leading others is a delicate art. Before leadership, first practice' followership'.?Followership is known as Servant leadership, a concept developed by Robert Greenleaf, a retired AT&T executive, after studying the principles of Taoism, inspired by Hermann Hesse's novel 'Journey to the East'.

Greenleaf distinguishes between two different types of leaders: servant-first and leader-first. A leader-first leader will be more likely to focus on being directive and achieving personal goals. A servant-first leader surrenders most of their authority and puts their team first. It's a selfless type of leadership that focuses on the long-term growth of team members.

Servant leadership embraces followership by serving others above all other priorities. Rather than managing exclusively for results, a servant leader focuses on generating results by creating an environment where their team can thrive and get their highest-impact work done.

You can become a Servant leader by being available, open and responsive to the views of those you would influence.?

Provide clear direction, context and guidance. If problems arise assume good intent, practice goodwill and leave your baggage at the door; Listen attentively and be curious. Discuss differences of opinion without judgement or by quarrelling. Listen from the heart, speak less and speak softly. Be firm, but gentle.?

Be free of arrogance and egotistical pretensions. Avoid the use of force or cunning as this only breeds distrust, resentment and escalation of conflict.?

To resolve conflict, be generous in your intentions, and start with whatever correction is necessary for your own behaviour, first.

A leader who serves their team by encouraging growth, offering a sense of purpose, and presenting a clear vision create an environment in which team members feel welcomed and supported.

Read more https://lnkd.in/eJCSTtSs

Would you like to work with an Oxford Leadership Certified Coach to develop your leadership skills? Send an email to?[email protected]

Join over one million executives who have benefited from Oxford Leadership's Self Managing Leadership course. Now online. Try it out for free:?https://smlonline.io/