For as long as I can remember, I’ve been a bit of a nerd when it comes to literature. But it wasn’t until I stumbled into the world of leadership that I learned the importance of a good book. You see, books are not meant for just entertainment or escapism (though they’re great for that as well). For example, reading the best books on leadership is synonymous with having a personal mentor who’s available 24/7 and ready to drop wisdom whenever you need it.
When it comes to learning about servant leadership, books offer a goldmine of eye-opening information. In those pages reside the words, wisdom, and experience of some of the greatest minds in leadership. They are all right there, on a platter, for you to see through their eyes, all from the comfort of your chosen reading space. Isn’t that just THE BEST?
Each book is bound to either teach you something, challenge your thinking, or inspire you to be a better leader. That’s why I’m so excited to share this roundup of the best books on servant leadership.
The Best Books About Servant Leadership
Ok, people, before we get into these best books, let’s take a pause briefly. I know you’re probably itching to get to the book list (trust me, I’m excited too!), but hear me out for a sec.
You see, discussing these books without knowing what servant leadership is—well, it’s like trying to bake a cake with no knowledge of what flour is. Of course, what comes out may indeed be something you can eat. But will it be that delicious masterpiece you had in mind?
So, here’s the deal. Let’s briefly discuss what servant leadership is all about. Understanding the basic principles of servant leadership will help you appreciate these books on a whole new level.
What is Servant Leadership?
Basically, it’s all about putting the needs of others first. By definition, a servant leader’s goal is to lead by example for the betterment of the team. His or her desire is to see their team members become the best versions of themselves.
So, what sets servant leaders apart and why do organizations need them? Well, for starters, they are good listeners. They don’t just listen to words; they truly understand their team’s needs and concerns. They also help foster community within organizations.
But, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Servant leaders are humble. They don’t go about playing the boss card, they don’t shy away from taking responsibility, they admit when they are wrong, and they never feel too big to ask for help.
This special breed of leaders also doesn’t selfishly cling to power like a dragon does with treasures. Instead, they distribute authority, trusting their team to make wise decisions and take charge.
Some of the most respected and successful leaders in history were servant leaders. Take Martin Luther King Jr., for example. He didn’t lead from a position of power but from a place of service to his community and his ideals. Another example is Mahatma Gandhi. He personally championed India’s independence, not through force, but through selfless service and non-violent resistance.
10 Best Servant Leadership Books
Now, let’s discuss some absolute must-reads in the world of servant leadership:
“The Servant” by James C. Hunter
James C. Hunter, in this book, provides great insights and literally paints a picture of what servant leadership entails with his words. What I like about this book most is how the author has been able to simplify the leadership concepts into easy-to-understand and relatable chunks. Hunter also explores key servant leadership topics like the power of love in leadership (no, not the romantic kind), the importance of patience, and how to build authority through service.
“Servant Leadership” by Robert K. Greenleaf
If servant leadership had a founding father, it would be Robert K. Greenleaf. This book is the one that started it all. In this masterpiece, Greenleaf introduces the concept of the “servant-leader.” He then proceeds to highlight how this approach can transform organizations and society at large. He also goes deep into serious subjects like the application of power, the importance of foresight, and the leader’s role in building a better society. This book will likely force you out of your comfort zone and challenge your assumptions about leadership.
“Leaders Eat Last” by Simon Sinek
The book title is derived from the Marines culture, where leaders eat last, ensuring their team is taken care of first. Sinek explores how great leaders create environments where people naturally work together for the good of the whole. He then sheds more light on the need for employees to feel safe at work, why leaders must have empathy, and how to build trust within teams.
However, what sets this book apart is Sinek’s knack for storytelling and backing it up with biological and anthropological evidence. This book is informative, thought-provoking, and filled with those light bulb moments.
“The Power of Servant-Leadership” by Robert K. Greenleaf
Yes, it’s Greenleaf again! And trust me, it’s another good read as well. While his first book laid the theoretical groundwork, “The Power of Servant-Leadership” is more focused on practical applications.
This book shows how the concept of servant leadership can be adapted in different settings, be it in the corporate world or educational institutions. But what I really like about this book is how it bridges the gap between theory and practice. It’s perfect if you’ve already covered the basics of servant leadership and are now left wondering, “Okay, but how do I actually do this?”
“The Servant Leader” by James A. Autry
James A. Autry brings a unique perspective to servant leadership. In this book, he blends his experience as a Fortune 500 executive with his poetic sensibilities. Autry breaks down servant leadership into five key areas: be authentic, be vulnerable, be accepting, be present, and be useful. He then illustrates each principle with real-life stories and practical advice.
But what makes this book unique is how Autry discusses leadership from an emotional and spiritual angle. Autry argues that true leadership is about creating a work environment where people can bring their whole selves to work. Expect to come away from this book with a deeper understanding of the human side of leadership.
“The Serving Leader” by Ken Jennings and John Stahl-Wert
If you’re looking for a book that combines storytelling with practical leadership lessons, “The Serving Leader” is a good pick. In this book, the authors employ storytelling to discuss five potent actions that can help transform your leadership approach. The book follows a businessman who learns servant leadership principles from his father’s notes and conversations with various mentors.
What I particularly like about this book is how it makes servant leadership principles tangible and actionable. Plus, the story format makes it an engaging read, perfect for those who might find traditional leadership books a bit dry.
“Dare to Serve” by Cheryl Bachelder
Cheryl Bachelder isn’t just talking the talk; she’s walked the walk. The author served as the CEO of Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, wherein she employed principles of servant leadership to transform the company. “Dare to Serve” is her account of this journey and the lessons she learned along the way.
In this book, Bachelder disagrees with the idea that leaders must choose between serving others and delivering superior results in an organization. She insists that the two concepts work hand in hand and outlines ways to lead with courage and, at the same time, stay humble. She also gives concrete examples of how servant leadership principles play out in a high-stakes business environment.
“The Secret” by Ken Blanchard and Mark Miller
Based on a real-life story, “The Secret tells the story of Debbie Brewster, a struggling leader who learns the five fundamentals of servant leadership through a series of conversations with her mentor. These fundamentals spell out the acronym SERVE: See the future, Engage and Develop Others, Reinvent Continuously, Value Results and Relationships, and Embody the Values.
I really enjoyed reading this book because Blanchard and Miller break down complex leadership concepts into digestible, memorable chunks. Plus, the story format makes it an engaging read.
“Multipliers” by Liz Wiseman
Multipliers isn’t exactly a book about servant leadership. However, the book’s core concept perfectly complements the principles of servant leadership.
In this book, Wiseman attributes a “multiplier” impact to leaders who use their intelligence to amplify the smarts and capabilities of their team. Meanwhile, leaders who drain their team intellectually and energy-wise, and make them feel less capable are regarded as “diminishers.” This book teaches that being a great leader is not about being the smartest person in the room. Rather, it’s about making everyone around you smarter and more capable. Sound familiar? That’s also what servant leadership is all about.
“Give and Take” by Adam Grant
Giving, according to Adam Grant in his ‘’Give and Take’’, is a paramount feature in the formulation of the servant leadership quadrant. Grant categorizes people into three types: givers, takers, and matchers. He then gives substantive proof that people who are givers, meaning those who help people without expecting anything in return, are the ones who reap good results in the future.
What sets this book apart is that it adopts scientific methodology. Grant, who’s an organizational psychologist, supports his suggestions with interesting research and case studies.
Servant leadership isn’t just about what you do; it’s about who you become.
Servant leadership is a journey of personal transformation that in turn impacts your team, your company, and the society at large. Thus, regardless of the tier of the organization, the basic principles of servant leadership will enable front-line employees to interact with customers effectively. They’ll understand the customers and their needs, even better than the customers themselves. They are also capable of meeting their customers’ needs.
The result? Happier customers, which mean better retention and a workplace buzzing with positive word-of-mouth. And, happier employees! If you want this too, pick up these books and put them into action.
And while you’re at it, tune in to my podcast and check out my other blog posts for steady, life-changing leadership nuggets. In fact, as a growing servant leader, you shouldn’t go on this journey alone. So, you DEFINITELY give a listen to our “Hold Space and Get Backup” episode. See you there!
