Written by: Teresa Devine, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
Carissa owns a bustling restaurant in downtown Atlanta. When she’s not handling payroll and inventory, Carissa is on the floor, greeting customers, supporting the waitstaff, and pitching in with dishwashing. No task is too small.
Her team admires her work ethic, positive attitude, and willingness to help. The term ‘boss’ doesn’t apply to Carissa because the staff sees a respected leader and mentor instead. She exemplifies servant leadership. Her choice to serve others first produces loyalty and dedication of her employees along with business success by ranking among the top 10 best places to eat.
Carissa empowers her employees through autonomous decision-making authority and team accountability.
When asking her staff why they enjoy working at Carissa’s restaurant, they agree it’s because she cares about their wellbeing on and off the job. Since Carissa is willing to listen and make improvements based on employee feedback, their ideas matter.
A firm commitment to family's first lifestyles is another company virtue Carissa upholds. Team members collaborate to guarantee attendance at important school functions, providing coverage when necessary. Flexibility is key.
In addition, Carissa believes in supporting her community by offering first responders special discounts and hosting charity events. Overall, servant leadership is a timeless concept that promotes positive work environments.
Here are five ways to elevate servant leadership in your organization
Lead by Example: Like Carissa, be a role model for your team and co-workers. Set the standard for behavior and work ethic by practicing it yourself. When leaders work alongside their team members, it fosters respect and trust.
Active Listening: A servant leader listens to understand, not solely to respond. Take the time to listen to your team’s ideas, concerns, and feedback. It not only boosts their sense of value but also enhances your business.
Empower Teams: Enable decision making autonomy and taking ownership of their work. Empowering your employees boosts confidence while encouraging creativity and innovation.
Encourage Development: Invest in your team’s personal and professional growth. Provide opportunities for learning and development and support them in achieving their career goals. A leader who supports developing others not only strengthens the team, but also builds a lasting impact.
Serve the Greater Good: Servant leadership isn’t stingy about the positive reach affecting the broader community and the world through its ripple effect. Encourage and take part in initiatives that give back to society and inspire your team to engage. If initiatives don’t exist, start one.
In conclusion, servant leadership is about putting others first, leading by example, and serving a purpose greater than oneself. Carissa enjoys a thriving atmosphere of happy employees and satisfied customers through intentional servant leadership practices.
By adopting these five principles, you can also create an effective work environment where everyone feels valued, empowered, and inspired to achieve and contribute their best.
Teresa Devine, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Teresa Devine is a former Fortune 500 executive giving up her lucrative tech career to help Christians go deeper spiritually, heal past pain, and live vivaciously. During her career, the demands took over and life's priorities were upside down. God revealed how to prioritize Him first and her life transformed. Teresa shares proven methods to help align with God and unleash the incredible life He intended. Teresa is CEO of Teresa Devine Co. LLC, creator of 24/7 Purpose®️ Academy and MindTrap Method™️ advanced training. Her mission: Swap the daily grind for daily impact.
