Servant Leadership: Teach a Man to Fish, then stand by as the Deckhand.

I've been promising to write this article for years, so, I'm finally putting pen to paper to share how moving from teacher to deckhand embodies the true spirit of servant leadership, transforming individuals and building stronger, more resilient organizations. I was lucky enough in my time in 3 Mobile to learn from 2 great teachers in leadership and organisational culture Fred Kofman and Carolyn Taylor . So here goes…

You know that old saying, "Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime"? It’s a classic, but as a servant leader, I believe we can take it a step further. It’s not just about teaching someone to fish. It’s about creating a vision of what success looks like, guiding them on the valuable types of fish and the best locations to find them, providing the necessary tools, and then standing by as a supportive deckhand.

Robert K. Greenleaf, the father of servant leadership, asserted that true leaders are servants first, driven by the innate desire to serve others. This philosophy is not just about leading but about nurturing and empowering those you lead to achieve their full potential.

Creating the Vision

Picture this: you’ve just taught a man to fish. But does he have the vision of what this will bring if he is successful. As a servant leader, you need to paint a vivid picture of his future success: abundant catches, financial stability from selling prized fish, and the joy of mastering a valuable skill. This vision provides motivation and a clear goal, driving the individual towards continuous improvement and persistence. This vision requires conceptualization, the ability to think beyond the immediate and see the broader implications and opportunities.

Guiding on Valuable Fish and Locations

Every fisherman needs to know which fish are most valuable and where to find them. Similarly, in servant leadership, you guide your team on the best opportunities and most rewarding paths. This involves sharing insights, experiences, and strategies that align with their strengths and the organization’s goals. It’s about helping them navigate the complexities of their roles and the marketplace. This aspect of servant leadership involves foresight and persuasion, helping others to see the value in the long-term goals and strategies

Providing the Tools

Success in fishing requires more than knowledge; it demands the right tools. As a servant leader, you ensure that the man is equipped with the right rod for the type of fish, the right line, a reliable boat, a powerful engine, and the best bait to target the fish and locations we have identified. These tools are akin to the resources, training, and support systems you provide in a leadership context. By ensuring your team has what they need, you set them up for success. This demonstrates stewardship and a commitment to the growth of people, both key characteristics of servant leadership.

Standing By as the Deck Hand

Finally, as a servant leader, you remain present and supportive. Much like a deckhand, you assist with the hard work, offer encouragement, and provide assistance when challenges arise. This hands-on involvement demonstrates your commitment to their success and builds trust and camaraderie within the team. Listening and empathy are crucial here, ensuring that you understand the needs and concerns of your team members and respond appropriately.

By merging the timeless wisdom of the fishing parable with the principles of servant leadership, you create an environment where individuals are not only empowered to succeed but also inspired to serve others. This holistic approach ensures that the growth and well-being of people are at the forefront, leading to a more engaged, motivated, and effective team.

So in summary, servant leadership transcends traditional leadership models by focusing on service, empowerment, and the holistic development of individuals. By creating a compelling vision, providing essential tools, offering strategic guidance, and standing by as a supportive presence, you foster an environment where everyone can thrive and contribute meaningfully to the greater good.

I hope you enjoyed my take on this old leadership story and thanks to those great leaders in my life that have shaped my career and who i am - Kevin Russell , Noel Hamill Nigel Dews Lara Bourguignon John Casey Michael Dureau AM and my greatest teacher, best friend, and wife, Suzy Dureau.