Page 47 - Harnessing the Strengths

30 ■ Servant-Leadership: In a Nutshell

what the boss wants, or does not want, than what the cli-
ent wants. This asks for unorthodox measures. In order to
change the way we look, it is necessary to turn the pyramid
upside down.
Another problem with the traditional pyramid is that
necessary information often does not fi lter up to the top.
People have a tendency to say what they think the manage-
ment team would like to hear, instead of what management
needs to hear. The problems can be tackled by ascribing
leadership a different status, one of fi rst among equals.
By making CEOs part of the team, leadership transforms
from an individual responsibility to a shared responsibility,
which gives rise to a better connection between the organi-
zation and the client.
Finally, the servant-leader is in the position to reverse
the pyramid whenever that is necessary. It is more impor-
tant to be able to rotate the pyramid than just turning it
upside down.

Empowerment

When people have enough room to develop themselves
and are given responsibility, they are able to reach their
full potential. This releases all kinds of mental energy and
motivation, which ensures that people are at their best. This
process is referred to as empowerment. Every person has
certain talents. The big question is not only whether people
have enough room, but also whether they actually have the
chance to grow. In many companies, there are people work-
ing beneath their level. They are only expected to do the
tasks that they were hired to do. Other talents that they
have are unused. That is a real shame.