What's your Credit Score?

Speaking to a friend recently I enquired about his new role and the large teams he manages. I was curious about the culture of his organisation and if there is anything he would change. He said, having been with the company for over 10 years and moving up the ranks, he was often disappointed when he or his team mates were not given the credit for a piece of work or idea when it was shared. He ensures now in his role as a Senior Manager that he names and celebrates the people responsible for the output of the team, feeling no need to own their achievements. This made me think of Servant Leaders, a term I heard in relation to the role of a Scrum Master but of course it is not a concept unique to Agile.

A Servant Leader, as the name suggest, serves their staff. They look for ways to help their team achieve their goals and listen and empathise appropriately. A Servant Leader knows the individuals on the team, their strengths and weaknesses, and how the team as a whole performs. They do not need a shrine, the productivity and happiness of their team is their measure of success.

When I first started working in an Agile environment the term 'Mama Bear' was used as an appropriate way to lead. Removing all obstacles and protecting the team from anything that may distract them from what they were aiming to achieve. At the time I liked this notion but as I matured and understood teams better I became uncomfortable with this. I see the limitations for the individuals on the team, in terms of learning opportunities and self empowerment, with this Mama Bear mentality. A Servant Leader, I believe, is not there to completely insulate the team and a great leader will see the benefits of a learning and coaching environment.

Now, my friend is a modern leader but not because he studied the mindset of Servant Leadership but because he's a good guy. His ego is in check, he is secure in his role and he is supported by his Senior Management. For others of course moving to a more Servant Leadership style may take some coaching.

What about you? What is your Credit Score? How generous and honest are you about the successes of your team?