Purpose The purpose of this paper is to describe the
development and validation of a multi-dimensional
instrument to measure servant leadership.
Design/Methodology/Approach Based on an extensive
literature review and expert judgment, 99 items were formulated.
In three steps, using eight samples totaling 1571
persons from The Netherlands and the UK with a diverse
occupational background, a combined exploratory and
confirmatory factor analysis approach was used. This was
followed by an analysis of the criterion-related validity.
Findings The final result is an eight-dimensional measure
of 30 items: the eight dimensions being: standing back,
forgiveness, courage, empowerment, accountability,
authenticity, humility, and stewardship. The internal consistency
of the subscales is good. The results show that the
Servant Leadership Survey (SLS) has convergent validity
with other leadership measures, and also adds unique elements
to the leadership field. Evidence for criterion-related
validity came from studies relating the eight dimensions to
well-being and performance.
Implications With this survey, a valid and reliable
instrument to measure the essential elements of servant
leadership has been introduced.
Originality/Value The SLS is the first measure where the
underlying factor structure was developed and confirmed
across several field studies in two countries. It can be used
in future studies to test the underlying premises of servant
leadership theory. The SLS provides a clear picture of the
key servant leadership qualities and shows where
improvements can be made on the individual and organizational
level; as such, it may also offer a valuable starting
point for training and leadership development.