In a world where project teams juggle multiple roles, deadlines, and evolving business needs, finding a leadership approach that truly connects with team members is essential. Enter Servant Leadership as a Service—an innovative leadership model that combines empathy, the platinum rule, and agile-inspired tools from software development to foster a people-centered approach. This concept, developed by Eric Ruder, Senior Project Manager at the American Marketing Association, treats team members as primary customers, addressing their individual needs to cultivate engagement, growth, and productivity.

 

The Origins of Servant Leadership as a Service

The idea of Servant Leadership as a Service stemmed from Eric’s work with tech leaders and developers who often struggle to find a leadership approach that resonates with both people-oriented and process-driven team members. Many leaders in tech are already familiar with user stories, agile cycles, and human-centered design. Eric’s insight was to apply these tools, not to software, but to people.

 

“Instead of writing a user story for software, you’re writing a user story for an employee facing a challenge,” Eric explains. This approach allows leaders to use familiar tools to support their team members’ growth, while also fostering a customer-service mindset focused on team members’ well-being.

 

Why the Platinum Rule is Essential to Servant Leadership as a Service

Central to this approach is the platinum rule: “Do unto others as they would like to have done unto them.” Unlike the golden rule, which assumes everyone’s preferences are the same, the platinum rule requires leaders to understand each team member’s unique needs and preferences.

 

A simple analogy Eric shares involves bringing coffee for the team. While well-intentioned, not everyone may drink coffee—some may prefer tea or water. By focusing on the platinum rule, leaders cater to individual needs, fostering a deeper connection with their team. This shift allows leaders to prioritize what team members need to feel supported and valued, rather than assuming a one-size-fits-all approach.

 

Key Tools and Benefits of Servant Leadership as a Service

Here are some practical methods for implementing Servant Leadership as a Service, along with their benefits:

 

Real-World Impact: Eric Ruder’s Experience with Servant Leadership as a Service

Eric has seen firsthand the positive effects of Servant Leadership as a Service in his role at the American Marketing Association. When he first joined, the PMO faced resistance as teams were unsure of its role. By conducting empathy mapping sessions with each team, Eric was able to identify and address team-specific challenges, reducing conflict and optimizing processes to better align with team needs.

 

This approach transformed team dynamics, creating a more collaborative, productive work environment where processes supported rather than hindered team efforts. By tailoring PMO practices to the teams’ unique needs, Eric was able to foster a stronger sense of alignment and cooperation across departments.

 

Getting Started with Servant Leadership as a Service

Servant Leadership as a Service is as much a mindset as it is a set of tools. Here are three actionable steps to help you begin:

 

Final Thoughts

Servant Leadership as a Service empowers project leaders to foster an environment where team members feel supported, valued, and motivated. By adapting human-centered design tools, such as empathy mapping and user stories, leaders can deepen their connection with team members, creating a work environment that aligns with individual and organizational goals. Whether you’re a seasoned project manager or a new leader, applying these principles can help transform your leadership style and drive meaningful results.

 

For those ready to explore further, start by asking yourself: How can I serve my team as they want to be served? By embracing this approach, you’re not just managing a team; you’re building a thriving, resilient workforce.

 

🎧 Listen to the full episode here: Podcast Episode 286

📖 Grab your copy of The IMPACT Engine book: IMPACT Engine Book

 

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