A study from the University of Exeter in the UK confirms that bosses who put the people who follow them first, boost productivity.  The researchers used 130 independent, previously published studies to test their theories.

The result:  the “servant-leader” style of management, which is ethical, trustworthy and shows genuine interest in the wellbeing and development of staff, generates positive change.  They found that employees are more positive, and therefore feel empowered to become more creative.  

The study concluded that employees value their relationship with a boss who is a servant-leader, and organizations benefit from a culture that promotes trust, fairness and high-quality working relationships.

The recommendation:  align your selection and training processes so that servant-leaders are placed in influential positions.