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How might servant leadership work?
Author(s) -
Ebener Dan R.,
O'Connell David J.
Publication year - 2010
Publication title -
nonprofit management and leadership
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.844
H-Index - 54
eISSN - 1542-7854
pISSN - 1048-6682
DOI - 10.1002/nml.256
Subject(s) - servant leadership , organizational citizenship behavior , nature versus nurture , leadership studies , organizational culture , management , public relations , sociology , service (business) , organizational commitment , transactional leadership , political science , leadership style , business , marketing , anthropology , economics
Abstract This study examines the mechanics of servant leadership, particularly how it enhances organizational citizenship and how that drives organizational effectiveness. A case study of three successful Catholic parishes identified three direct leadership mechanisms—invitation, inspiration, and affection—that evoke and nurture the service of others. The case analysis also identified two organizational leadership mechanisms—culture building and structural initiatives—through which servant leaders fostered organizational citizenship. This study contributes to an understanding of organizational effectiveness by suggesting how leaders might foster the growth and development of others, build servant‐oriented organizations, and improve overall organizational performance.