In the world of tennis, few players still use the one-handed backhand, a classic technique that, despite becoming increasingly rare, remains a powerful tool when executed correctly. Lorenzo Musetti, for example, surprised many by defeating Tiafoe at Roland Garros, proving that this style, though considered outdated, can still be highly effective.

In the corporate world, certain leadership styles follow the same logic: they are seen as outdated, yet when applied correctly, they can be strategic differentiators. Two notable examples are servant leadership and paternalistic leadership.

Servant Leadership: The Power of Empathy

Servant leadership prioritizes the well-being and development of employees over purely strategic decisions. In a corporate environment increasingly focused on metrics and rapid results, this model may seem old-fashioned. However, companies that adopt this approach often build more engaged, productive, and innovative teams.

Servant leaders act as facilitators, ensuring their teams have the resources and support needed to grow. This approach not only improves workplace culture but also positively impacts talent retention and overall company performance.

Paternalistic Leadership: Protection and Unity in Times of Crisis

Another leadership style often considered outdated is paternalistic leadership, where the leader takes on a mentoring role, guiding and protecting their team. While this model has been criticized for limiting employee autonomy, it can be highly effective in times of crisis or in organizational cultures that value strong interpersonal relationships.

A recent example of this leadership style can be seen in Grêmio, the traditional Brazilian football club, which hired Luiz Felipe Scolari, known as Felipão, as technical coordinator during a challenging period. Felipão is famous for his paternalistic approach, fostering trust and unity among players. This type of leadership can be crucial for restoring team morale and strengthening the club’s identity, demonstrating that even in a rapidly evolving landscape, some classic strategies still hold significant value.

What Can We Learn from These Leadership Styles?

Just like the one-handed backhand in tennis, these leadership styles may be rare, but they remain powerful tools when applied correctly. The key is understanding the context and knowing when to use these approaches to bring out the best in teams.

In the corporate world, innovation is essential, but that doesn’t mean we should completely abandon strategies that have already proven effective. The balance between tradition and modernity can be the key to a stronger and more sustainable future.