Laurie KennedyA review of current secular and business leadership uncovers a frightening cultural trend demonstrated by many contemporary leaders. This trend, is disastrous to employee and volunteer performance.

Keep information within your inner circle. Ensure controls to keep staff working. Demonstrate the superior/inferior roles of boss/employee relations. Ensure staff depend on you for decisions by demanding immediate results. Maintain a low opinion of your staff. Manage and design systems to ensure you get the credit. Reduce compassion for your staff’s personal issues. Keep your eye on the ball to be sure your personal needs and results are achieved.

My daily reading of scripture illustrates a totally different style of the Christian Servant Leader.

Develop your work influence from within your personal character. Encourage, inspire and motivate, building a positive relationship with staff while being responsive to each individuals need. Value your staff and volunteers, share decisions and encourage the skill of each individual. Be considerate and compassionate of others. Be known and valued as a coach, mentor and friend to your staff and volunteers. Live the Vision, Mission and Values that are developed, owned and lived by the leadership and staff alike.

“If today you will be a servant to these people and serve them and give them a favorable answer, they will always be your servants.” (1 Kings 12:7 NIV) Jesus called them together and said, “You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all.” (Mark 10:42-44 NIV)

As an employee or volunteer, who would you rather work for? Which qualities do you demonstrate to your people?

Leadership is … living God’s character today and every day.

Yours in Service,

Laurie D. Kennedy
Leadership Coach
Jethro Group
ldkjethrogroup@gmail.com