Document Type
Article
Original Publication Date
2009
Journal/Book/Conference Title
Journal of Dental Education
Volume
73
Issue
9
First Page
1065
Last Page
1068
Date of Submission
March 2015
Abstract
The dental profession is guided by normative principles that provide guidance to our leaders and practicing dentists in addressing the needs of patients and the profession, yet there is room for incorporating new ideas that help dental professionals meet their professional obligations. The purpose of this essay is to discuss the concept of “servant leadership,” especially in contrast with “self-serving leaders,” and to suggest that servant leadership is consistent with the high ethical and professional ideals of the dental profession. The servant leader is the antithesis of the self-serving leader, who incessantly seeks more power and acquisition of material possessions. The servant leader’s highest priority is the people (patients/students/customers) he or she serves. The concept of the servant-leader can take us away from self-serving, top-down leadership and encourage us to think harder about how to respect, value, and motivate people and ultimately provide better service to our patients.
Rights
Reprinted by permission of Journal of Dental Education, Volume 73, 9 (September 2009). Copyright 2009 by the American Dental Education Association.
Is Part Of
VCU General Practice Publications