Beyond Servant Leadership: Why Being a Coach Is a Better Style
Often leaders are asked about their style and the term “servant leader” often comes up. Let’s break down what this means before we explore why the role of a coach might be an even better fit for modern CTOs.
A servant leader is someone who puts the needs of their team first. They focus on supporting, enabling, and lifting their team members, ensuring that each person has what they need to succeed. This approach fosters a positive work environment, encourages personal growth, and builds trust within the team. In essence, a servant leader is all about serving others rather than wielding authority.
However, while being a servant leader is admirable, I believe there’s a term that captures the essence of what a tech leader can be even more effectively: a coach.
So, what makes a coach different? Coaches share many of the supportive qualities of servant leaders but add a crucial component: they actively work to build and improve their team. Think of a sports coach — they don’t just make sure their athletes have water and encouragement; they also devise strategies, provide targeted training to develop skills, and push their team to achieve more than they thought possible.
A coach in the tech world does much the same. They don’t just support their team’s needs; they also identify areas for growth and help their team members improve. This could mean offering technical guidance, fostering soft skills like communication and leadership, or helping navigate career paths. Coaches see the potential in their team and actively work to draw it out, benefiting both the individuals and the company as a whole.
Why is coaching especially important in technology? The tech field is fast-paced and always changing. Teams need to constantly learn and adapt to stay ahead. A coach helps their team embrace change, encourages continuous learning, and fosters an environment where failure is seen as a stepping stone to success. This proactive approach to team building ensures that a tech team is not just effective now but continues to grow and evolve to meet future challenges.
In conclusion, while being a servant leader is a strong start, embracing the role of a coach offers an additional layer of engagement with your team. As a coach, you’re not just there to support; you’re there to actively invest in your team’s development and success. This approach creates a dynamic, learning-oriented team ready to tackle the challenges of the tech world. For current and aspiring CTOs aiming to build world-class teams, consider how adopting a coaching mindset could transform your leadership style and elevate your team’s performance.
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