There is much discussion about humility in leadership. It's a good discussion for all leaders to have. However, it is the behaviors of humble leaders that are most important. Humility in leadership is seen in how a leader acts in very tangible ways. Here are some of the most important traits of a humble leader.
Humble leaders:
- Listen far more than they speak. They genuinely want to know what others think and they listen carefully.
- Seek a diversity of opinions rather than simply listening to those who agree with them. They want to know as much as they can and listen to a wide variety of advice.
- Ask many and good questions. They engage in dialogue and conversation rather than telling people what they think.
- Serve those who work for them rather than expecting others to serve them. Like Jesus they come to be served rather than to be served.
- Are non-defensive when challenged.
- Engage in robust dialogue where any issue can be put on the table with the exception of a personal attack or hidden agenda.
- Do not ask staff to do what they are unwilling to do themselves.
- Are deeply introspective and understand their strengths, weaknesses and vulnerabilities.
- Live with an attitude that they have nothing to prove, nothing to lose and nothing to hide.
- Are appropriately transparent regarding their areas of growth and personal challenges.
- Are not easily angered and keep their emotions in check.
- Treat all people with respect, dignity and kindness.
It is one thing to believe that we are humble. It is another to actually live with the traits of humility.
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