When you think of a leader, you might picture someone at the top of a hierarchy, giving orders and making big decisions. But the servant leadership style flips that idea on its head. Instead of focusing on power and control, servant leaders prioritize the needs of their team, empowering others to grow and succeed. This leadership style is built on the belief that leadership is servanthood—true leaders serve first and lead second.
But how does that work in practice? We’ll explore the meaning of servant leadership, its key traits, advantages and disadvantages, and how you can develop a servant leadership approach in your career.
What is servanthood leadership?
Servant leadership is a leadership philosophy that focuses on serving the needs of employees, customers, and communities. Instead of putting personal ambition or authority first, servant leaders prioritize the development and well-being of their team members.
The servant leadership theory was formally introduced by Robert K. Greenleaf in the 1970s. He described servant leaders as those focused on the growth and well-being of people and communities, rather than simply seeking power. This approach aligns with the idea that leadership is servanthood—meaning leaders exist to serve and uplift those they lead.
Servant leadership is often seen in organizations that emphasize collaboration, ethical decision-making, and strong employee engagement. Leaders who embrace the servant leadership style believe that by investing in their team, they ultimately drive greater success for the entire organization.
Key characteristics of servant leaders
Some of the most important characteristics of servant leaders include:
- Empathy: They take the time to understand and care about their team members’ personal and professional needs.
- Active listening: They truly hear and consider employees' ideas, concerns, and feedback.
- Humility: They don’t see themselves as superior but instead as part of the team.
- Commitment to growth: They prioritize helping employees develop their skills and advance in their careers.
- Ethical decision-making: They act with integrity and put the needs of the group ahead of personal gain.
- Stewardship: They take responsibility for the well-being of their organization and those within it.
- Community building: They foster a sense of belonging and teamwork among employees.
These traits are not exclusive to servant leaders, of course. But in servant leadership they are prioritized—whereas in other leadership styles they exist in the mix, but are not the main attributes.
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Servant leadership advantages and disadvantages
Of course, servant leadership is not all rainbows and butterflies. Let's take a look at the pros and cons of this leadership style:
Benefits of servant leadership
Servant leadership offers several advantages for both leaders and their teams.
- Higher employee engagement: Studies show that employee engagement is positively impacted by servant leadership. When employees feel heard and supported, they are more likely to be engaged in their work.
- Stronger relationships: Trust and collaboration thrive in an environment where leaders prioritize their teams’ well-being.
- Increased innovation: Encouraging input from all employees leads to diverse perspectives and creative solutions.
- Better retention rates: Employees who feel valued and respected are more likely to stay with an organization long-term.
- Ethical workplace culture: Servant leadership promotes integrity, fairness, and a people-first approach to decision-making.
Servant leadership cons
Despite its many benefits, servant leadership also has some potential downsides.
- Slower decision-making: Prioritizing collaboration and consensus can sometimes delay important decisions.
- Risk of leader burnout: Constantly focusing on others’ needs can lead to exhaustion if leaders don’t set boundaries.
- Not always effective in high-pressure environments: In fast-paced industries that require quick, top-down decision-making, servant leadership may not always be the best fit.
- Misinterpretation of authority: Some employees may see a servant leader’s humility as a lack of authority or decisiveness.
How to develop a servant leadership style
If you’re interested in becoming a servant leader, there are a few different ways to get started.
- Listen more than you speak. Make an effort to truly understand your team’s concerns, challenges, and ideas before making decisions.
- Put your team’s needs first. Shift your mindset from “How can my team help me succeed?” to “How can I help my team succeed?”
- Encourage growth and development. Provide mentorship, training, and opportunities for your employees to advance.
- Lead by example. Demonstrate humility, integrity, and commitment to the organization’s mission.
- Build a culture of trust. Create an environment where employees feel comfortable speaking up and contributing.
- Foster collaboration. Instead of making all the decisions alone, involve your team in brainstorming and problem-solving.
- Practice servant leadership in everyday interactions. Small gestures—like recognizing a job well done or asking how someone is doing—can make a big impact over time.
Read this next: 21 Leadership Values Every Leader Should Embrace
Is servant leadership right for you?
Servant leadership is an excellent choice for leaders who value collaboration, ethics, and long-term employee growth. While it may not work in every situation—such as in highly hierarchical or fast-paced environments—it is a powerful approach for those who want to create a positive, people-centered workplace culture.
By embracing the principles of servant leadership, you can build stronger relationships, drive meaningful change, and inspire those around you—not by commanding, but by serving.