Leadership

Servant Leadership: 8 key ideas

by Robert K. Greenleaf

The core ideas of Servant Leadership, each in under a minute, written in our own words. Want the full depth? Get the book.

1. IDEA 1 OF 8

   Great leaders serve first

   Greenleaf argues that the best leaders begin with a natural desire to serve others, and only then choose to lead.

   He contrasts this with people who seek leadership mainly for power or wealth.

2. IDEA 2 OF 8

   A story inspired the idea

   Greenleaf took inspiration from Hermann Hesse's story Journey to the East, in which a servant named Leo turns out to be the true leader of a group.

   The story showed him that serving can be a form of leadership.

3. IDEA 3 OF 8

   The test is others' growth

   Greenleaf suggests that the test of servant leadership is whether those served grow healthier, wiser and freer.

   Leaders should help people flourish. In his view, leaders should ask what happens to the people they serve, and whether the weakest members of society benefit or are further left behind.

4. IDEA 4 OF 8

   Leaders listen first

   Greenleaf argues that servant leaders listen carefully before speaking.

   Listening builds understanding. In his view, a leader who hears people out first understands their real needs better, and then makes wiser choices.

5. IDEA 5 OF 8

   Foresight guides leaders

   Greenleaf emphasises foresight, the ability to anticipate consequences.

   Leaders must think ahead. In his view, a leader who looks ahead, and learns from the past, can see trouble coming and prepare so people are not caught by surprise.

6. IDEA 6 OF 8

   Persuasion beats force

   Greenleaf argues that servant leaders persuade rather than coerce.

   They build consensus. In his view, winning people over by explaining and listening takes longer than giving orders, but it lasts longer and respects their dignity.

7. IDEA 7 OF 8

   Leaders are stewards

   Greenleaf describes leaders as stewards, holding resources in trust for others.

   Responsibility comes with power. In his view, a steward looks after what belongs to others, so power is a duty to serve the group and not a personal prize.

8. IDEA 8 OF 8

   Institutions can serve too

   Greenleaf argues that organisations, such as businesses and universities, should serve society.

   Institutions need servant leaders. In his view, large organisations shape many lives, so they should be led by people who care about the wider good.