DREIESKIVA​|Roald Kvam

Emotional intelligence transforms the way leaders approach their roles, shifting the focus from command to compassion, from control to empowerment. I believe deeply that true leadership isn’t about wielding authority; it’s about enabling others to reach their fullest potential. Great leadership is, at its heart, about service.

Servant leadership is a concept Robert K. Greenleaf explore in his essay, “The Servant as Leader.” Greenleaf’s philosophy centers on the idea that the most effective leaders are motivated primarily by a desire to serve others. As a christian, I see Jesus as a leader that practiced this model in a brilliant way:

«You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. But it shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.» – Jesus (Mark 10)

A service-first mindset challenges traditional models of leadership, reframing it as a path of support, humility, and shared growth.

Why Servant Leadership Matters

When leaders approach their role with a servant’s heart, the impact on their teams and organizations is profound. Servant leaders build a foundation of trust, compassion, and collaboration, which leads to transformative results. Studies consistently show that servant-led teams experience:

• Lower Staff Turnover: Employees who feel valued and supported are more likely to stay with their organization, reducing costly turnover.
• Higher Engagement Levels: Servant leaders who listen, encourage, and invest in their team’s well-being inspire higher levels of motivation and commitment.
• Greater Customer Satisfaction: A culture of service and care naturally extends to customers, leading to better customer experiences and loyalty.
• More Frequent Goal Achievement: When leaders focus on their team’s growth, individuals are more empowered and equipped to meet and exceed goals.

Servant leadership is about bringing out the best in others, but to do that, you must first bring out the best in yourself.

Here are four practical steps to begin embodying the principles of servant leadership and making a positive impact on your team.

1. Create an Open Environment for Communication

A servant leader fosters a space where every team member feels heard, valued, and safe to express ideas and concerns. This openness encourages trust, which is foundational to strong teamwork and innovation. When team members feel their voices matter, they are more engaged and motivated to contribute meaningfully.

NIKE IT – Just Do It: Begin each team meeting by inviting input and feedback. Ask open-ended questions, like «What’s on your mind?» or «How can we support you in achieving your goals?» Emphasize active listening by giving each person your full attention, taking notes, and following up on feedback. Over time, this cultivates an atmosphere of mutual respect and transparency.

2. Lead by Example in Every Action

Servant leaders recognize that their actions speak louder than words. By modeling the values they expect from their team – integrity, hard work, and respect – they set the standard for behavior. Leading by example builds credibility and inspires others to follow suit.

NIKE IT – Just Do It: Be conscious of the example you set in both large and small actions. If you want your team to prioritize work-life balance, model it by setting boundaries yourself. If you expect transparency, be open about your own challenges and decisions. This authenticity demonstrates that you are willing to hold yourself accountable, which strengthens team trust and morale.

3. Prioritize Your Team’s Growth and Development

Servant leaders are deeply invested in the growth of their team members. By focusing on both personal and professional development, they empower individuals to excel and reach their potential. This commitment to growth fosters loyalty, improves skill sets, and ultimately contributes to the team’s success.

NIKE IT – Just Do It: Take time to learn each team member’s strengths, interests, and career aspirations. Provide resources, opportunities, and support tailored to these goals, whether that’s through mentorship, training programs, or hands-on experience with new projects. Regularly check in with each person to discuss their progress and make adjustments as needed. Your team will feel valued and motivated, knowing you’re invested in their future.

4. Embrace Humility and Continuous Learning

Humility is a core characteristic of servant leaders. It means acknowledging that you don’t have all the answers, being willing to admit mistakes, and learning from others – including your team. This willingness to grow fosters a culture of continuous improvement and invites others to be open and honest as well.

NIKE IT – Just Do It: Encourage feedback from your team, and when you receive it, respond with openness and gratitude. If you make a mistake, own it publicly and share what you learned. For example, if a decision didn’t yield the desired results, openly discuss it with your team and invite their insights on how to improve. This level of vulnerability is both refreshing and inspiring, encouraging others to adopt the same growth-oriented mindset.

The Transformative Power of Servant Leadership

Servant leadership doesn’t just improve team dynamics; it has the potential to change the entire culture of an organization.

When leaders place service at the center of their approach, they create a ripple effect that influences every interaction and decision.

«The great leader is seen as servant first, and that simple fact is the key to his greatness.» – Robert K. Greenleaf

Servant leaders set the stage for innovation, resilience, and fulfillment within their teams, cultivating an environment where people feel empowered to bring their best selves to work each day.

Benefits of Embracing Servant Leadership in Your Career

1. Increased Trust and Loyalty: When team members feel valued and supported, they are more likely to trust their leader and remain committed to the organization. This trust fosters a strong sense of community and collaboration.
2. Enhanced Creativity and Innovation: An open, supportive environment encourages team members to share ideas and think outside the box without fear of judgment. This freedom is crucial for creative problem-solving and innovation.
3. Stronger Resilience During Challenges: Servant leaders build resilient teams that can adapt to change and face challenges with a solution-oriented mindset. Team members feel supported, which makes them more willing to tackle difficult situations head-on.
4. Greater Fulfillment and Purpose: Servant leadership promotes a culture of shared purpose. Team members feel that their contributions matter and are connected to the larger goals of the organization, which enhances overall job satisfaction and purpose.

Embracing Service as a Leader

Becoming a servant leader isn’t an overnight transformation – it’s a journey of developing emotional intelligence, empathy, and a dedication to others. It means consistently investing in your team; their growth and well-being. This approach may seem challenging, but the rewards are extraordinary.

As you walk the path of servant leadership, you’ll find that your own growth and satisfaction increase as well.

Embrace these principles, and watch as your team rises to new levels of achievement, satisfaction, and resilience.

Servant leadership turns the workplace into a place of empowerment, learning, and purpose – a place where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and grow.

Empowering others, fostering an environment of trust and respect, and dedicating yourself to your team’s success is the true hallmark of impactful leadership.