Introduction
The servant leadership style is one of the most controversial management practices. This method includes many psychological and practical elements in the context of interacting with people at a professional working level. Like all other management models, servant of leadership has its merits and demerits. They can include the emotional, ideological, and organizational aspects of this practice. All elements might have a positive connotation but contradict each other.
Positive Traits of the Servant Leadership System
The servant leadership system departs from the traditional subordinate management scheme. The servant leader sees himself not as an assistant who can provide the team with decent conditions and support (Eva, Robin, Sendjaya, Dierendonck, & Liden, 2018). He often puts the feelings and desires of team members above all else. In second place are the goals of the organization; the personal priorities of the leader are relegated to the background. The success of an organization largely depends on a psychologically comfortable and stable work environment for staff. This attitude towards subordinates offers good chances for increased confidence and productivity.
Disadvantages of the Servant Leadership System
The use of this management method can lead to a conflict of goals and interests. The servant of leadership does not perceive employees as human resources but sees them primarily as individuals (Eva et al., 2018). In this case, the line between professional and personal attitudes is sometimes blurred. Increased personal concern for the well-being of employees can conflict with mandatory company enforcement measures and interfere with the achievement of the ultimate goal. In some cases, strict discipline or emergency downsizing is imperative, which is fundamentally contrary to the practice of servant leadership. In a highly competitive and limited environment, this management style may not be the most effective solution.
Reference
Eva, N., Robin, M., Sendjaya, S., Dierendonck, D., & C. Liden, R. (2018). Servant Leadership: A systematic review and call for future research. The Leadership Quarterly, 30(1), 111–132.