The real question may actually be whether you want to be a servant leader or some other type of leader. In a thought provoking article on the topic, Chuck Miller, explores what type of leaders work best in community associations. I agree with Mr. Miller that there is likely no “right” answer as the type of community, the engagement of the members, the resources available and the style of the board member are all factors in what leadership style will produce the best results in your community. To be an effective servant leader, the article outlines 12 key characteristics that the leader must embody. Do you?
Awareness: understand your own values, biases, strengths and weaknesses as well as the values of those served
Foresight: sense of how the past, present and future of your community are connected
Stewardship: understand that you are holding the communities’ resources in trust for all members
Listening: listen effectively
Empathy: understand and appreciate the perspective of others
Persuasion: recognized for your ability to influence others through persuasive capabilities
Conceptualization: integrate present realities with future possibilities (e.g. make it happen)
Commitment: think about others not yourself
Building community: create a sense of belonging
Diversity: value diverse opinions and seek out opposing points of view
Trust: cultivate a culture of trust
Humility: don’t wear your title as a badge or wield title for power, it is about others
In future blogs I will explore the keys to developing these characteristics and how they can benefit your community and further your leadership style.
Joyce Boogren