Are you a "Know-It-All" Project Manager?
Deepak Jain
Delivering Projects & Leading Change | PMI-PMP? Certified | Technology Professional | Looking for job change
Imagine a project manager barking orders, micromanaging every task, and hoarding all the knowledge. Sounds like a recipe for disaster. Isn't it?
Well, new generation project manager isn't just about barking orders and wielding a metaphorical whip. They're there to guide, support, and empower their team & unleash their true potential. That's where Servant Leadership comes into picture.
Servant Leadership – A People First Approach
Servant leadership flips the traditional leadership model on its head. Instead of focusing on their own authority and power, servant leaders prioritize the needs and growth of their team members. Think of them as facilitators whose focus is on removing roadblocks or impediments and fostering an environment where everyone thrives.
Why should you develop servant leadership skills in yourself?
When you embrace servant leadership and make it your style of leadership then it gives you plenty of benefits, and helps you Lead your team by example. A servant leader possess the capabilities that helps them achieve:
What makes you a better Servant Leader?
A servant leader is the one who leads by example and this becomes really important for the leader to understand & self-retrospect themselves what & how they're leading the team. Today, team does not need to be managed only, but need to be empowered. And, a true leader focuses on that and believes in creating more leaders.
Now, let's bring it into action and learn to develop servant leadership skills.
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A servant leader does not get threatened by their team's skills & efficiency. They guide & facilitate their team to become better, deliver more with less efforts, improve efficiency and help them balance their work-life balance.
Micromanagement is another aspect that servant leaders try to refrain themselves from. Because, they know that the efforts spent in micromanaging their team will result into chaos & spread the message of distrust in them. While a servant leader should start with trusting the abilities & skills of their team members and whenever wherever they get stuck, they should help them out. Sometimes, by delegating new responsibilities to them, they express more trust in their team & nurture them in becoming a new leader.
Open dialogue & transparent communication bridges the gap between the duo. A servant leader fosters an environment where team members feel comfortable in sharing ideas, concerns, and even mistakes. And, as a servant leader, this becomes our duty to ensure to handle the situation with maturity & respect. The more respect we express, the better the outcome is.
Actions speak louder than words. A servant leader embodies the values they expect from their team. They're willing to roll up their sleeves, collaborate, and go the extra mile.
Sometimes, we delegate new responsibilities and tasks for which they are not ready to perform. Don't hoard tasks. Delegate based on skills and strengths, providing clear expectations and ongoing support. If required, put the necessary training & mentoring plans in place.
Always celebrate success, doesn't matter if the victory is big or small. Recognition goes a long way. Acknowledge individual and team's achievements, fostering a positive and motivating environment.
End Note:
Servant Leadership is a journey, not a destination. It takes continuous effort and self-reflection. But by prioritizing the growth and well-being of your team, you'll be well on your way to becoming a more effective project leader and fostering a successful, thriving project environment.
Ditch the "know-it-all" attitude and embrace the power of Servant Leadership. By empowering your team and putting their needs first, you'll unlock their potential and ensure your projects reach new heights.