The concept of servant leadership has endured for centuries. However, Robert K. Greenleaf coined the term “servant leader” in 1970 when he published his essay “The Servant as Leader.” Greenleaf wrote that the servant leader feels a sense of duty to lead. This stands in sharp contrast to traditional leadership, where someone may assume a leadership position purely out of a desire for privilege or power. Servant leaders understand that they intend to serve others. Public servants can embrace the following qualities of servant leadership:
- Being mindful of and caring for the underprivileged in society.
- Prioritizing the growth and well-being of individuals and their communities.
- Displaying awareness, empathy and foresight.
It is important to note that servant leadership can exist at all levels of an organization. Some public service involves working directly with the people living in communities, while others may solely work with their teams in the organization. In both settings, public servants can embrace the principles of servant leadership.