What is a major characteristic of servant leadership?

A major characteristic of servant leadership is its focus on empowering team members. This approach emphasizes the leader's role as a servant first, prioritizing the growth, well-being, and development of individuals within the team. Servant leaders aim to foster an environment where team members feel valued and supported, which in turn encourages collaboration, innovation, and a sense of ownership over their work.

In this leadership style, decisions are made collaboratively, and leaders actively seek input from their teams, which helps build trust and strong relationships. By empowering team members, servant leaders not only enhance individual performance but also foster a positive organizational culture where everyone is encouraged to contribute their ideas and talents. This results in a more engaged and motivated workforce, which can lead to better outcomes for the organization as a whole.

The other options emphasize different aspects of leadership that do not align with the principles of servant leadership. For instance, maximizing profits and exercising strict control reflect more traditional, hierarchical leadership models that prioritize targets and authority rather than team and individual empowerment. Similarly, minimizing collaboration contradicts the core element of servant leadership, which thrives on open communication and teamwork.