The importance of empathy in leadership
A common question among leaders and in the literature related to leadership studies is the question: what traits does an effective leader possess? Unfortunately, there is no concrete, conclusive answer. Wouldn’t we love to say that good leaders are always [name your trait], and leaders without [said trait] are always ineffective. Unfortunately, it is not that clear.
An effective leader may have strengths that successfully mask his or her weaknesses – weaknesses we usually associate with poor leadership. For example, a leader may find it challenging to be effective without good communication skills, but if that leader is very self-aware, is able to build relationships with others, and surrounds themselves with people who complement their weaknesses, then it is possible for the person to be effective.
While there may not be a definitive answer to the question about leader traits, there are leader characteristics associated with positive leader outcomes. One such characteristic is empathy. Catalyst surveyed almost 900 employees in the United States across a variety of organizations and industries and concluded “empathy is a must-have in today’s workplace” (section 1, para. 2).
What is empathy?
According to the Catalyst article, empathy is a skill that helps us connect with the feelings, thoughts, and viewpoints of others and then demonstrate that connection in a caring and intentional way. A leader with empathy is a “leader who demonstrates care, concern, and understanding for employees’ life circumstances” (section 2, para. 2). Leaders can demonstrate empathy through their thoughts, feelings, and actions. Sympathy is when we demonstrate pity or care without really understanding the situation; empathy requires a level of “putting yourself in their shoes.”
What are the benefits of empathy in leadership?
There are many benefits associated with empathic leadership.
Empathy increases innovation and engagement, especially when demonstrated at the senior leader level. (Catalyst survey)
Empathy supports employee retention and can help reduce burnout. (Catalyst survey)
Empathy is positively associated with how employees view their manager’s job performance. (Center for Creative Leadership)
Empathy helps employees balance work, family, and personal obligations. (Catalyst survey)
Empathy improves the quality of our interactions with others and helps to facilitate effective communication. (Center for Creative Leadership)
How do we become more empathetic?
Thankfully, empathy can be developed in each of us, and there are many articles and books on how we can foster more empathy in our own lives. At the most basic level, empathy requires us to consider the circumstances of another person, and imagine what we might feel, think, and do. In order to consider those circumstances, we have to know those circumstances. Thus, we need to be able to meaningfully connect with others. Here are a few suggestions on how to do this in the workplace:
Demonstrate a genuine interest in the lives of your colleagues
Ask how they are doing and pay attention to their response
Reinforce good work with praise – acknowledge the contributions of an employee
Provide reasonable flexibility in the workplace
Begin emails with personal acknowledgement or words of gratitude
Provide resources to support effective work
Listen attentively to suggestions, ideas, and complaints (do not turn the conversation to your own thoughts)
Do not multitask while interaction with or listening to others
Take time to connect with team members during team meetings
Be sure your words are consistent with your actions
This list is far from exhaustive, but it is a good start.
What next?
When I envision leaders with empathy, who are willing to meaningfully connect with their colleagues and employees, I see healthier organizations and happier workers.
If you would like to develop your leadership traits, contact ABL Wise Consulting. I would love to help you take the next step on your road to excellence.
