The phrase “Servant Leadership” was coined by Robert K. Greenleaf in 1970 to describe a model of leadership that gives priority  to those served. Unlike traditional leadership models which maintain a hierarchical style, servant leadership emphasizes compassionate collaboration, stewardship, and the ethical use of power. The best test for servant leadership, as described by Greenleaf, is: Do those served grow as persons? Do they, whilst being served, become healthier, wiser, freer, more autonomous, more likely themselves to become servants? What is the benefit to the least privileged in society?

Successful servant leaders demonstrate characteristics such as awareness, empathy, foresight, the ability to listen, and trustworthiness. They are persuasive as opposed to coercive, collaborative as opposed to commanding. By empowering those they serve and working with them to identify creative solutions to problems, servant leaders build consensus and a mutually supportive environment. Servant leadership is more than just the commanding of power in a responsible way - it is a holistic journey that requires discovery of one’s self, a desire to change society for the better, and a commitment to lead.

To learn more, visit www.greenleaf.org.