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Greenleaf's Theory Of Servant Leadership

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Leadership theories and practices are quite numerous, many leaders start out with one style and over the years adopt various styles and practices based on the organization and the situation that they are faced with. However, throughout the years two important aspects of leadership has remained constant. (Ferch & Mitchell, 2001, p. 81) pointed out that “leadership is a relational phenomenon that occurs between people, and the fundamental goal of leadership is to remain as effective as possible”. Servant leadership is one theory that I predominantly identify with because it focuses on the relationship with a goal of improving an individual or an organization. Greenleaf (1977) introduced the concept of servant leadership approach over forty years …show more content…

Servant leadership focuses on people and places a great emphasis on the relationship between leader and follower. (Quote) states that the core premise of servant leadership is that leaders give priority to the wellbeing of their followers over the servant leader’s self interest to ensure increase organizational and individual performance. Servant leadership is very like various other leadership theories and practices however its core values provide a more meaningful framework of leadership that is focused on laying the foundation and growth for an organization and their employees. Although servant leadership was coined by Greenleaf (1977), its original principles can be found in the Bible. For example, in Matthew 20: 28 (New International Version Bible), “just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many”. This paper will review the practices of servant leadership it will examine the characteristics and core competencies and introduce a faith based narrative on the framework and importance of servant

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