James C. Hunter has written a second book on leadership, this one called "The World's Most Powerful Leadership Principle." It emphasizes the process of becoming a servant leader.
To lead is not to be "the boss," "the head honcho," or "the brass." Servant Leadership is actually a robust, revolutionary idea that can have significant impact on an organization's performance.
Servant Leadership turns bosses and managers into coaches and mentors. Hunter suggests that the Servant Leader should determine the mission, values, standards and accountability. Servant leaders do not take a poll or take a vote when it comes to these critical fundamentals. When these things are in place, the servant leader turns the structure upside down. They focus on giving employees everything they need to win, be it resources, time, guidance or inspiration. Servant leaders know that providing for people and engaging hearts and minds foster a workforce that understands the benefits of striving for the greater good. The emphasis is on building authority, not power; on exerting influence, not intimidation.
Here are some thoughts about leadership:
Just because a person can do the job well does not mean that he or she can inspire and influence others to do the job well.
I encounter far too many professionals in our educational institutions who see their roles primarily imparting book knowledge to a "bunch of kids" they don't really car much for.
It has been suggested that managers do things right while leaders do the right thing.
You do not manage people, your lead people
One of the operative words in our leadership definition is the ability to influence others for good.
John Wooden, the legendary basketball coach of UCLA had this to say about this book: "For years I have highly recommended James Hunter's first book, "The Servant," to all my friends and acquaintances. I truly believe that "The World's Greatest Leadership Principle" will be of more value to all concerned about becoming and being an effective leader."
3 comments:
Businesses would flourish if every boss and manager assumed their roles as mentors and coaches.
These are great ideas! I wish everyone in leadership positions could read these books!
Stacey O
Every one of us can make a shift in the way we think about relating to other people... those who have authority over us and those we have authority over. Changing the way we think is the first step. I love the idea of giving people what they need to succeed.
I just only read the 1st 2 chapters of this book a couple of hours ago, while my family and I were on a bookstore. It really helped me. You guys can check my site at http://www.normanvincentnormanvincent.blogspot.com/
I'm a Christian youth leader from the Philippines.
Post a Comment