In the last few blogs, we’ve explored six effective leadership styles: servant, transformational, results-driven, hands-on, adaptive, and coaching.
While no single style works best for every employee, servant leadership consistently ranked highest across most generations of workers. Beyond boosting morale and engagement, servant leadership can also improve the bottom line. A 2023 study found that business owners who shifted to a servant leadership approach saw an increase in profits.
What Makes a Servant Leader?
Servant leaders stand out by:
- Allowing employees to share their feelings and suggestions
- Listening to feedback from employees, customers, and stakeholders
- Admitting mistakes and acknowledging they don’t have all the answers
- Recognizing the contributions of others
- Leading with authenticity
- Committing to personal growth and improvement
- Building a culture of trust and safety
Jesus modeled this style of leadership, reminding His disciples:
“Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve.” — Mark 10:43–45
How Servant Leadership Benefits Businesses
Servant leadership doesn’t just feel good—it produces tangible results that can strengthen and grow a business:
1. Greater Employee Engagement
- Employees feel valued, connected, and empowered in their roles
- Engaged employees are more likely to stay, reducing costly turnover
- Lower turnover = reduced hiring/training expenses = higher profits
2. Stronger Customer Relationships
- Servant leaders prioritize customer needs and resolve issues quickly
- Genuine care builds loyalty and trust
- Better service and stronger relationships = repeat customers = higher revenues
3. More Innovation and Adaptability
- Employees feel safe suggesting improvements and new ideas
- A culture of trust encourages flexibility and openness to change
- Increased efficiency and adaptability = happier customers = higher profits
4. Ethical Business Practices
- Servant leaders model integrity in all dealings
- Customers, employees, and partners are more likely to trust the business
- Strong partnerships and customer loyalty = sustainable growth
5. Inspires Employees with a Sense of Purpose
- Employees who believe in the mission bring passion and energy to their work
- Purpose-driven employees are more productive and efficient
- Greater productivity = lower costs = stronger profitability
Final Thoughts
Practicing servant leadership fosters a culture of trust, respect, and collaboration. These qualities not only make the workplace more positive but also contribute to long-term profitability.
The apostle Paul captured this spirit well:
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” — Philippians 2:3–4 (NIV)
When business owners choose to serve first, both people and profits thrive.
Susan's Reflections 