Servant Leadership: Putting Others First in the Workplace

Leadership is often associated with power, authority, and influence. Yet, the most impactful leaders throughout history have demonstrated that true leadership is about serving others. As Simon Sinek famously said, “Leadership is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge.” We are going to discuss Servant Leadership.

A leader in business attire clapping and smiling while presenting an award to a team member, with colleagues applauding in the background in a modern office. — Acknowledging the Achievements of Your Team.

The Greatest Act of Servant Leadership

One of the most profound examples of servant leadership I have witnessed occurred during a difficult time at Tyco Electronics. A massive layoff left hundreds of employees reeling, and the emotional toll was heavy. One supervisor, tasked with laying off his entire team, demonstrated the epitome of servant leadership.

What his team didn’t know was that he had also been laid off. The company offered to relieve him of the painful task, but he refused. Knowing he had lost his own job, he still chose to deliver the difficult news to his team personally. He ensured that each conversation was conducted with care and dignity. Even in the face of his own uncertainty, his priority was to take care of his people. This act of selflessness left an indelible mark on everyone who heard about it. He exemplified what it means to lead with compassion and to put others first, even at great personal cost.

Having had to lay off people who worked for me, I understand the difficulty of this task. Many times, HR would tell me just to inform them that today was their last day and then leave. I never did that. These individuals worked for me, and I felt it was my responsibility to show them the respect they deserved. Even though I had made a difficult decision, I wanted to demonstrate that I still cared. I would like to say that this approach was always appreciated, but I often faced anger and hurt. Despite this, I believed it was my duty to listen, even when they were upset, because I had made the decision, and they deserved the opportunity to express their feelings.

Learning from the Ultimate Example

The concept of servant leadership is not new. Over 2,000 years ago, Jesus provided the ultimate example when He washed the feet of His disciples (John 13:12-15). In that time, foot washing was the task of the lowest servant, yet Jesus humbled Himself to serve those He led. He told His disciples, “Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.”

This act wasn’t about physical cleanliness; it was a profound lesson in humility, care, and leading by serving. Jesus demonstrated that leadership is not about titles or positions but about meeting the needs of others.

A professional leader in business attire assisting a stressed team member by pointing at a computer screen filled with tasks, with papers and a notepad scattered on the desk in a modern office. — A Leader Supporting an Overwhelmed Team Member.

Knowing Your People

Servant leadership requires more than just performing acts of service. It demands that leaders truly know their people. When you take the time to understand the strengths, challenges, and emotions of those you lead, you’re better equipped to support them effectively. Great leaders can sense when something is not right because they’ve built relationships based on trust and genuine care.

In the workplace, this might mean noticing when a team member seems overwhelmed, asking questions to understand their challenges, and offering support. Leaders who invest in knowing their people build loyalty and foster a sense of belonging. As John Maxwell famously said, “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.”

The Cost of Neglect

Failing to care about those you lead has consequences. As leaders, if we neglect the needs and well-being of our team, we risk losing their trust and commitment. One day, we may turn around and find that they are no longer following us. As Peter Drucker observed, “The most serious mistakes are not being made as a result of wrong answers. The truly dangerous thing is asking the wrong questions.” Neglect often stems from failing to ask how we can better serve those we lead.

A diverse group of professionals in business casual attire enjoying a pizza party in a modern conference room, celebrating project success. — A Pizza Party to Honor Team Success.

Lessons Learned

Servant leadership transforms workplaces. By prioritizing others, leaders create environments where trust, loyalty, and productivity thrive. Here are some practical steps to embody servant leadership:

Practice Active Listening: Pay attention to what your team is saying and respond thoughtfully.
Lead by Example: Model the behavior and values you want to see in your team.
Show Empathy: Understand and share the feelings of those you lead.
Invest in Relationships: Take time to know your people—their strengths, struggles, and aspirations.
Prioritize Others’ Growth: Help your team develop professionally and personally.

Servant leadership is not easy, but it’s worth it. By putting others first, you not only become a better leader but also create a ripple effect of care and compassion that extends far beyond the workplace.

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