This month's selection is a transformative book that challenges traditional leadership paradigms and introduces a fresh approach to leadership through service. I have considered myself a servant leader for a long time but even the title of this book changes gears on the term itself, from “servant” to ‘serving’ leader. The verbiage transitioning from a noun to a verb gives it power and encourages continuous action.
At its core, "The Serving Leader" emphasizes serving others as the fundamental principle of effective leadership. The authors argue that leadership is not about accumulating power or authority but empowering and uplifting those around you. They outline five key actions that serving leaders embody:
Run to Great Purpose: Serving leaders are driven by a compelling vision and purpose that transcends personal gain. They inspire others to rally behind a shared goal, fostering a sense of meaning and direction within the team or organization.
Upend the Pyramid: Instead of adhering to hierarchical structures where authority trickles down from the top, serving leaders invert the traditional pyramid, placing themselves at the bottom in a position of support and service to those they lead. This approach fosters a culture of collaboration and mutual respect.
Raise the Bar: Serving leaders hold themselves and others to high standards of excellence. They challenge individuals to reach their full potential, providing guidance, feedback, and support along the way. By setting a high bar, they cultivate a culture of continuous improvement and growth.
Blaze the Trail: Serving leaders lead by example, demonstrating integrity, courage, and resilience in the face of challenges. They navigate uncharted territories with confidence and humility, inspiring others to follow suit. Through their actions, they pave the way for innovation and progress.
Build on Strengths: Rather than focusing on weaknesses and shortcomings, serving leaders leverage the unique strengths and talents of each team member. They create an environment where individuals feel valued and empowered to contribute their best, resulting in enhanced performance and fulfillment.
Through compelling anecdotes, practical insights, and actionable strategies, Jennings and Stahl-Wert illustrate how serving leadership can transform teams, businesses, and communities for the better. They emphasize the importance of authenticity, empathy, and selflessness in building meaningful connections and driving sustainable success.
Overall, "The Serving Leader" is a thought-provoking and inspiring read that challenges readers to rethink their approach to leadership and embrace a more service-oriented mindset. Whether you're a seasoned Emergency Manager or an emerging leader, this book offers invaluable wisdom and guidance for leading with purpose, passion, and humility.
*Warning* portions of this book can be a tear-jerker, I found at times my face was leaking juice and had to quickly rehydrate.
Takeaways
The serving leader tends to help everyone else succeed and in doing so they succeed. The serving leader only becomes first by putting other people first.
You are in charge, primarily to charge others up, always giving credit where credit is due.
Check your ego, do not let it get in the way of team success.
Select your team carefully, make sure they fit the culture, leverage their strengths, and consistently raise performance expectations.
Know your weaknesses and focus on improving your strengths. Do not waste precious time improving your weaknesses to mediocracies, instead focus on your strengths and select teammates with diverse strengths.
Great people are all around you, open your eyes and see them.