October 2008
Where Have All the Servant Leaders Gone?
The US economy is probably the worst it’s been since I’ve been in the business world—27 years. And yet, I remain convinced that to strengthen your sales force during these turbulent times, you need to nurture Servant Leadership. I see businesses of all types of sizes overcome and thrive in the most adverse conditions under servant leaders. And, gurus like Warren Bennis, Ken Blanchard and Stephen Covey tout servant leadership as the most effective leadership mindset.
A true servant leader:
- Maintains proper stewardship of all resources
- Serves the people he/she leads to accomplish a shared vision
- Values a collaborative approach to build community
- Demonstrates concern through actions that meet the needs of their people—concern surpasses the advancement of their career or personal agenda
Interestingly, these same principles are applicable when evaluating the upcoming candidates in the upcoming election.
Read the full article I wrote about how to evaluate politicians’ commitment to servant leadership and elect a real servant leader on the Articles Page of this web site.
As you apply the principles of Servant Leadership in the sales arena, you’ll find that these changing market and economic conditions require you to scrutinize your sales efforts. Over the last couple of weeks the common questions I’ve been hearing from CEOs, presidents, and owners are:
- How do I need to adjust my sales strategy to still be successful in 2009?
- How can I find out if my current sales people can generate more revenue in this new economy?
- Could I get the same results with fewer people?
- If yes, who are the people I should be retaining?
- Where does sales management need to focus in order to maximize results?
- What do we need to do to get the sales team back on track?
- How many on the sales staff can successful make the transition from account management to hunting for new business?
- What can we do to help the sales team handle the “no money, ” “spending freeze” excuse?
Which of these questions have you been asking?
Sales Growth Specialists can help you get actionable answers that will position you for continued growth in 2009.
Discipline. Creativity. Results.
Danita
