Servant leadership flips the traditional leadership model. Instead of focusing on power or authority, it centers on serving others first. This approach builds trust, encourages collaboration, and creates stronger teams. Research by organizational psychologist Adam Grant highlights how leaders who prioritize others' needs can inspire greater commitment and performance. Here are five key servant leadership behaviors drawn from Grant’s work and related studies that every leader should practice.

1. Prioritize Listening to Understand

Listening is more than hearing words. It means fully focusing on the speaker, understanding their perspective, and withholding judgment. Adam Grant emphasizes that leaders who listen well gain deeper insights into their team’s challenges and motivations. This behavior builds trust and makes employees feel valued.

For example, a manager who regularly holds one-on-one meetings to listen to employees’ concerns without interrupting or rushing to solutions fosters a culture of openness. This encourages team members to share ideas and problems early, preventing bigger issues later.

2. Show Genuine Empathy

Empathy means recognizing and sharing others’ feelings. Grant’s research shows that empathetic leaders create stronger emotional connections with their teams. This connection boosts morale and loyalty.

A practical way to show empathy is by acknowledging personal challenges employees face. For instance, if a team member is struggling with work-life balance, a servant leader might offer flexible hours or additional support. This approach demonstrates care beyond just work tasks.

3. Encourage Growth and Development

Servant leaders focus on helping others grow. Adam Grant highlights that leaders who invest in their team’s development build more capable and confident employees. This behavior benefits both individuals and the organization.

Leaders can encourage growth by providing regular feedback, offering learning opportunities, and supporting career goals. For example, a leader might sponsor training programs or mentor employees to help them reach their potential.

4. Share Power and Decision-Making

Rather than hoarding authority, servant leaders distribute power. Grant’s findings suggest that involving team members in decisions increases engagement and ownership. When people feel their input matters, they contribute more actively.

A leader practicing this behavior might create committees or working groups to tackle projects. They invite diverse perspectives and share responsibility for outcomes. This approach also helps develop future leaders within the team.

5. Act with Humility and Integrity

Humility means recognizing one’s limitations and valuing others’ contributions. Integrity involves being honest and consistent in actions. Adam Grant notes that leaders who demonstrate these traits earn respect and credibility.

For example, a humble leader admits mistakes openly and uses them as learning moments. They give credit to the team for successes and maintain transparency about challenges. This behavior fosters a culture of trust and accountability.

Putting Servant Leadership into Practice

Adopting these behaviors requires intentional effort. Start by reflecting on your current leadership style and identifying areas to improve. Small changes, like dedicating time to listen or recognizing team efforts publicly, can make a big difference.

Remember, servant leadership is not about being passive or weak. It’s a powerful way to build strong teams that thrive on mutual respect and shared purpose. Leaders who serve first create environments where people want to contribute their best.

Try incorporating one behavior at a time and observe how your team responds. Over time, these practices will become natural and transform your leadership impact.

Focusing on serving others through listening, empathy, growth, shared power, and humility creates a leadership style that drives real results. By embracing these behaviors, leaders can build trust, inspire commitment, and foster a positive workplace culture.