It is hard to imagine true leadership without empathy.
In fact, by definition it would seem that leadership without empathy would be more akin to a dictatorship. For isn’t the act of leading one of taking a group of people where they want to go (alignment around vision and values)? And why would people follow unless they feel the leader hears them, is sensitive to what is important to them, and acts in their best interests?
Empathy helps people feel safe and more willing to be vulnerable–key ingredients to building trust, which is foundational for all kinds of relationships.
Research done by Bal and de Jong (From Human Resource Management to Human Dignity Development) has shown that when people trust each other at work [because their relationships are strong] they are more committed to the organization and more willing to make a positive contribution.
Three thoughts Great Leaders can adopt to practice empathy with intentionality:
I notice you (cognitive empathy)
I feel your pain (emotional empathy)
I act to help you (practical empathy)
Herb Mast is a Leadership Coach and Employee Engagement Specialist. Learn how he can assist you in implementing the principles and concepts presented here.