When becoming a leader, learning about the different characteristics of transformational leadership is essential. Servant leadership is one way that people can stay focused on Christ while providing valuable leadership to others. For those just beginning their journey into the world of leadership, it’s crucial to learn about servant leadership so the characteristics can continually be practiced.

The cornerstone of servant leadership is helping those who are performing poorly and mentoring those who are doing well to do even better, as described by entrepreneur Jim Rohn. There are common qualities that all servant leaders have, which can be cultivated over time through training and other leadership programs.

Most importantly, servant leaders put the needs of others before their own. Christ-focused leaders understand this call. As the Bible directs us in Mark 9:35, when Jesus called the apostles and said, “Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all.” Ten major characteristics of servant leaders are:

• Listening
• Commitment to the growth of people
• Empathy
• Healing
• Awareness
• Building community
• Persuasion
• Conceptualization
• Foresight
• Stewardship

Putting Others First: The Cornerstone of Servant Leadership

People have been helping others and putting their needs first for hundreds of thousands of years, as we can see from many different stories in the Bible. Jesus is one of our best examples of servant leadership. By putting the needs of others first, we can gain their trust. Servant leaders have the unique ability to:

• Acknowledge other people’s perspectives
• Involve others in important decisions
• Build a sense of community among team members
• Give people support in reaching their personal goals

These crucial characteristics of transformational leadership will guide individuals to become influential leaders. Hebrews 13:7 tells us, “Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.” By becoming Christ-focused leaders, we can change the world for the better. Adopting a servant leadership lifestyle can have a positive impact on everyone around us.

Characteristics of Servant Leaders that Empower Others

To work on developing spiritually, we can adopt the following crucial characteristics of servant leaders. Continue reading to learn about the ten qualities of Christ-focused servant leaders.

1. Listening

To better serve others, we have to listen to their concerns, goals, and dreams. As successful servant leaders, individuals understand the value of listening to their team members and giving them their full attention.

2. Committing to Growth

Being committed to the personal and professional development of team members is another essential element of servant leadership. Helping people overcome any roadblocks and strengthen their skills will lead to long-term success. Leaders who are aware of their team members’ goals will assign them projects or tasks that can help them grow.

3. Empathy

We can’t effectively help those who are struggling unless we show empathy. Having empathy means that we can try to understand other people’s perspectives and even their hardships. Successful leaders know how to be empathetic and approach situations with an open mind and heart.

4. Healing

Servant leaders must care about both the emotional and physical health of their team. Putting others’ needs first often means supporting them in whatever they’re going through. Giving people the right resources and support ensures that colleagues are taken care of and can thrive in whatever setting they’re put into.

5. Awareness

Every good leader must be self-aware. They have to be able to examine themselves and see how their behavior affects those around them. If our actions are hurting others, then we cannot be effective, Christ-focused leaders. Choosing to lead with love and understanding how our actions affect others are some of the most crucial aspects of servant leadership.

6. Building Community

One of the main focuses leaders are charged with is building a community. It may seem simple; however, it’s not always easy. Servant leaders can effectively build community by fostering relationships and helping those on their team or group. When we help each other, we create a healthy community where everyone’s needs are met and supported.

7. Persuasion

Instead of using authority, servant leaders utilize persuasion to encourage others. It’s also vital to inspire group members to come to a consensus so that everyone is on the same page. Persuasion can be done without hurting or intimidating others.

8. Conceptualization

Seeing the big picture is a vital component of any Christ-focused leader, not just those who practice servant leadership. A leader’s ability to see the future is indispensable for effectively leading a group and fostering growth. Staying focused on goals can help conceptualize a bright future with those you’re leading.

9. Foresight

Much like conceptualization, foresight has to do with the future. Great servant leaders will learn from past mistakes to make decisions about the future. By understanding the consequences of certain actions, leaders can avoid mistakes and help others steer clear of bad choices. Foresight is all about considering every outcome before making any decisions.

10. Stewardship

Great leaders take responsibility for their choices and actions. Stewardship ensures leaders are held accountable for the organization or group’s success. Leaders have a huge responsibility, and they have to recognize that responsibility by making the right choices and acknowledging when they’ve fallen short.

Becoming a Christ-Focused Leader

Those who want to become Christ-focused servant leaders should consider applying for membership to train in the world of leadership. Locker Room Direct offers ample opportunities for anyone looking to lead while staying focused on Christ. Becoming a servant leader can positively impact the lives of others, as we are following Christ’s example. As Philippians 2:3 reminds us, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility, value others above yourselves.”