Navigating Your First Leadership Role: Embracing Servant Leadership

Transitioning into your first leadership position as a supervisor can be both exhilarating and daunting. You may be tempted to think that being responsible for a team means commanding authority and giving orders, but that's not the essence of leadership. Great supervisors serve as intermediaries between operations and management, while simultaneously fostering trust and support. Here, we explore the principles and advice essential for success in your new role.

Understanding the Role of a Supervisor

Let's dispel the notion that being a supervisor is about bossing people around. Your primary responsibility is to ensure that your team functions effectively, providing them with everything they need to succeed in their roles. This means being approachable, understanding their tasks, and being a valuable resource for them. You should be their first point of contact for support, defense, and problem-solving.

Key Advice from a Mentor

Decades ago, when I became a supervisor for the first time, my mentor gave me invaluable advice. She explained that serving a team doesn't entail bossing them around but being accountable for everything they do. It involves understanding their work and methods so that you can provide the necessary support and guidance. My mentor emphasized that a great supervisor must be a team's first line of contact for support, defense, supplies, coaching, problem-solving, and accountability. The most important thing is that as a supervisor, you should not do their work for them but rather understand their tasks and methods.

The Principles of Servant Leadership

Today, the core principle of being a dedicated team leader is known as Servant Leadership. This approach focuses on serving your team and fostering a supportive environment. It involves being the team's go-to person for various needs, from solving problems to providing resources. As a leader, it's crucial to understand and embrace the principles of servant leadership to build a trust-based and supportive relationship with your team.

Other Valuable Wisdom

Besides the mentorship received, I've drawn from my family's wisdom as well. My grandparents, with their old-school sense of wisdom, taught me invaluable lessons that have helped me in my career. Here are a few nuggets of wisdom that I found useful:

Humility

Grandpa often said, "The bigger you are, the harder you fall." This highlights the importance of staying grounded and humble. This wisdom prevents hubris which can lead to critical mistakes.

Patience and Reflectiveness

My grandpa also taught me to "measure, think twice, cut, speak once." This means being thoughtful in your words and actions. Additionally, "Silence is golden" and "Never take back a misspoken word," which underscores the importance of thoughtfulness before speaking.

Listening and Leadership

He also said, "Think first, you have two ears and one mouth for a reason. Listen more than you talk." This advice emphasizes the importance of active listening, a crucial skill for any leader. By listening, you gain valuable insights and build better relationships with your team.

Reliability and Composure

When I became a transportation manager at a young age, I felt uncomfortable. However, I organized a meeting with my drivers, and by acknowledging their experience and using my grandfather's wisdom, I gained their trust. I reminded them, "If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it," and this eased their concerns. I learned that being observant and recognizing good work can go a long way in fostering loyalty and support.

Respect and Communication

Lastly, respect and communication are paramount. Never yell at people who have given you their trust and respect. Once that trust is broken, it's nearly impossible to regain. Breathing and taking a moment to consider your words before speaking can prevent hasty decisions and miscommunications.

Conclusion

Your first leadership position is a significant milestone. By understanding the principles of servant leadership and incorporating the wisdom you've been given, you can build a strong foundation for success. Congratulations on your advancement and make a meaningful difference in your team's journey.