In today’s dynamic and multifaceted professional landscape, the concept of servant leadership has gained significant traction across various industries, including business, ministry, and education.
Learn what servant leadership is, the reasons why aspiring leaders should consider this approach, and the critical skills and educational background required to become an effective servant leader.
What Is Servant Leadership?
A servant leader is someone who prioritizes the needs of others, empowering and uplifting their team members to help them achieve collective goals. They lead by example, embodying humility, empathy, and selflessness.
To illustrate this concept, consider these words from 1 Peter 5:2-3 in the New International Version (NIV) of the Bible: “Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them — not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.”
Servant leadership is a leadership philosophy that emphasizes the leader’s role as a servant first. Coined by Robert K. Greenleaf in 1970, this approach focuses on the well-being and development of team members, fostering a culture of collaboration, trust, and ethical behavior.
Unlike traditional leadership models that prioritize power and control, servant leadership prioritizes serving team members, ensuring their needs are met, and empowering them to achieve their full potential.
Why Is Servant Leadership Training Important for Leaders?
Servant leadership training is important for leaders in many different roles. Consider some of the following contexts in which servant leadership training can make a difference:
Business Roles
In the business world, servant leadership can transform an organization’s culture, improve employees’ satisfaction, and drive the organization’s long-term success. Servant leaders in business prioritize the growth and well-being of their employees, which can lead to employees experiencing increased motivation, creativity, and productivity. They also focus on making ethical decisions that serve the best interests of the organization, its employees, and the community at large.
The servant leadership style fosters a positive work environment where employees feel valued and engaged, which can ultimately benefit the organization’s bottom line.
Ministry Roles
Servant leadership in ministry can foster a supportive and nurturing church community. Leaders who serve their congregation with humility and compassion can inspire others to follow suit, creating a ripple effect of positive change. By prioritizing the needs of others, servant leaders who become church ministers can build strong, resilient communities rooted in mutual respect and care.
Education Roles
In educational settings, servant leaders can profoundly impact the lives of both their students and colleagues. By focusing on their students’ development, these leaders can create an environment that is conducive to learning and personal growth. Servant leaders in education encourage collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to the well-being of all members of the academic community.
Servant Leadership Examples
Servant leadership can take many forms. These include:
- Business: A CEO who implements an open-door policy, encourages employee feedback, and invests in professional development opportunities for employees exemplifies servant leadership. By prioritizing their teams’ needs and growth, such leaders can create a more innovative and resilient organization.
- Ministry: A pastor who actively listens to their congregation’s concerns, provides support during times of need, and leads community service initiatives embodies servant leadership. This approach can foster a sense of unity and purpose within the church community.
- Education: A school principal who mentors teachers, supports their professional growth, and ensures a safe and inclusive environment for students demonstrates servant leadership. Servant leaders can enhance the overall educational experience and promote a culture of continuous improvement.
How Can Advancing Their Education Help Professionals Become Servant Leaders?
Earning the right degree can significantly enhance an individual’s ability to practice servant leadership effectively. Education programs such as Bachelor of Business Administration, Master of Business Administration (MBA), and Master of Arts in Leadership programs that include servant leadership training can provide the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to lead with a servant’s heart.
For those pursuing a career in the ministry, degree programs such as Bachelor of Science in Christian Ministries, Master of Ministry, and Master of Arts in Leadership in Christian Leadership programs that offer specialized training in servant leadership principles can help prepare individuals to serve their church communities with compassion and integrity.
Additionally, education programs such as a Master of Arts in Leadership in Higher Education Administration program can help prepare students to serve as leaders in higher education institutions.
Answer the Call to Servant Leadership
Servant leadership is a powerful approach that can transform an organization, a church community, or an educational institution. By focusing on the needs and growth of others, servant leaders create an environment where individuals can thrive. Pursuing an education program that explores servant leadership concepts can help equip aspiring leaders with the skills and knowledge they need to excel in their roles.
Those interested in the role servant leadership can play in the corporate world should consider one of Mid-America Christian University’s online and in-person business degree programs, which offer a foundation in administration and management guided by Christian principles.
MACU also offers a variety of online and in-person ministry degree options that are designed to prepare students with the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to succeed in leadership roles within and outside of the church. In addition, MACU offers flexible education degree programs for those who want to lead with service in the classroom and other educational environments.
To learn more about how a MACU degree can prepare you for a career in servant leadership, explore the program that’s right for you, and take the first step toward becoming a leader who serves.
Recommended Readings:
How to Become a Minister
Types of Business Degrees and When to Pursue Them
Business Administration vs. Business Management: Differences in Career Paths
Sources:
Asana, “Servant Leadership: How to Lead by Serving Your Team”
Forbes, “5 Qualities of Servant Leadership in 2024”
Forbes, “The Power of Servant Leadership: Building a Path to Lasting Business Success”
Sermon Central, 1 Peter 5 NIV
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Clergy