Why Stewardship in Management means Taking Personal Responsibility is Important
Introduction
Effective management requires responsibility, accountability, and a commitment to excellence. To achieve these qualities, professionals need to embrace the concept of stewardship. Stewardship involves taking care of resources, using them responsibly, and leaving them in better shape than when you found them. In management, stewardship is about taking personal responsibility for creating and maintaining an environment that promotes growth, productivity, and success.
The Meaning of Stewardship in Management
At its core, stewardship in management implies taking personal responsibility for the well-being of the organization you lead. It means that you are accountable for the success or failure of the team, the division, or the company. You must understand that your actions and decisions impact not only your career but also that of your colleagues, customers, suppliers, and shareholders.
Why Stewardship Matters in Management
Stewardship matters because it helps manage risk, builds trust and credibility, and fosters innovation and growth. When leaders take personal responsibility for their actions and decisions, they create a culture of trust that encourages others to do the same. They also make more informed decisions because they are mindful of the implications of their choices on the organization’s future.
How to Practice Stewardship in Management
Practicing stewardship in management requires a combination of skills, knowledge, and attitudes. Here are some ways to start:
Lead by example
Setting an example is crucial to embodying stewardship in management. Leaders must walk the talk and exhibit the behaviors they expect from their team, such as transparency, integrity, respect, and diligence.
Be accountable
Accountability means taking ownership for your actions and decisions. It means acknowledging mistakes and learning from them, and taking corrective actions as needed. When leaders are accountable, they create a safe environment where others can do the same.
Cultivate a learning mindset
Stewardship in management requires a dedication to lifelong learning. Leaders must continuously seek new knowledge, challenge assumptions, and ask critical questions. This mindset creates an environment of innovation and growth that can lead to better outcomes.
Collaborate with others
Collaboration is essential to effective stewardship in management. Leaders must work with others to identify and solve problems, share knowledge and resources, and build relationships that foster trust and mutual respect.
Case study: Patagonia’s Stewardship Example
Patagonia, an outdoor apparel company, provides a great example of how Stewardship in management can lead to organizational success. The company has a long-standing commitment to environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and quality products. The company has taken significant steps to reduce its environmental impact, such as using recycled materials, reducing water usage, and minimizing waste. Furthermore, Patagonia provides employees with generous benefits, including onsite childcare, paid volunteer time, and a commitment to fair labor practices. As a result, the company has gained a loyal following of customers and employees who share its values and support its mission.
Conclusion
Stewardship is a critical concept in effective management. It requires leaders to take personal responsibility for creating and maintaining an environment that promotes growth, productivity, and success. By practicing stewardship in management, leaders can manage risk, build trust and credibility, and foster innovation and growth. Ultimately, stewardship benefits not only the organization but also its employees, customers, suppliers, and shareholders.
