In today’s fast-paced work environment, the concept of ‘servant leadership’ is gaining popularity. This leadership style focuses on leaders serving their employees, prioritising their well-being and development. But how does Occupational Health (OH) fit into this picture?
Inspired by Ziyu Xu‘s original draft research paper that hit my inbox today, let’s explore how collaboration and partnership with OH can enhance servant leadership and improve employee wellbeing and retention.
Servant Leadership is all about leaders putting their employees first. It’s not just about hitting targets but also about helping employees grow personally and professionally. Research shows that this approach can lead to higher job satisfaction and better performance.
The role of OH
Our role is to ensure that employees are physically, mentally, and socially healthy at work. This includes health protection to prevent ill health and injuries, promoting healthy work environments, and supporting overall health through personalised care and supported self-management. By combining occupational health with servant leadership, organisations can create a holistic approach to employee wellbeing.
How we work together with our clients
Healthy Work Environment:
We support employers to create workplaces that reduce stress and prevent burnout. This includes ergonomic workspaces and mental health support.
Empathy and Support:
We understand and address your team’s health needs, building trust and loyalty.
Health Initiatives:
We design and deliver health education and train-the-trainer programmes to empower workers to take charge of their health, supported by ‘servant leaders’.
Real-world case-studies and examples
Academia:
A case study on Schreiner
University explored the development of “servant leadership” through a community-based service-learning project. Upper-level sports management students served as mentors in an after-school programme, which significantly enhanced their leadership skills and empathy.
Engineering:
At Google, “servant leadership” principles have been integral to fostering innovation and team well-being. Google’s commitment to employee empowerment and support has led to high levels of job satisfaction and retention.
Manufacturing:
Toyota’s lean manufacturing principles include strong
OH initiatives, fostering continuous improvement and wellbeing. Toyota’s implementation of lean manufacturing principles, which align closely with “servant leadership”, has been pivotal in its success. The focus on continuous improvement and employee empowerment has helped Toyota maintain its competitive edge and operational excellence.
Scientific Sector:
Research organisations show that good occupational health improves productivity and wellbeing. A
study on the application of “servant leadership” in scientific research organisations highlighted the importance of empathy, support, and empowerment in fostering a collaborative and innovative environment. This approach has been shown to improve research outcomes and employee satisfaction.
Skilled Trades:
In the skilled trades, a case study on a manufacturing company demonstrated how “servant leadership” led to significant improvements in employee engagement and productivity.
Conclusion
Leaders who engage with Occupational Health realise the value of integrating these principles to foster a thriving workplace. Collaboration between ‘Servant Leadership’ and Occupational Health can optimise wellbeing by creating a mutually supportive and healthy work environment. Contact us to discuss how a proactive focus on building trust, engagement and support could support your employee retention and drive organisational success.
