How To Lead with Empathy in the Workplace

Leading with empathy in the workplace can be a challenge. You’re juggling numerous demands and trying to maintain a sense of calm amidst the storm. However, research suggests that empathy is a key leadership trait. In fact, one study found that empathy was the strongest predictor of job performance for leaders.

So, how can you lead with empathy in the workplace? Here are some tips:

1. Seek to Understand Before Being Understood

When someone comes to you with a problem, take the time to really listen and understand their perspective. This can be difficult in the midst of a busy workday, but it’s important to try to see things from their point of view.

2. Put Yourself in their Shoes

Empathy is about trying to understand how someone else is feeling. So, when you’re dealing with a difficult situation at work, try to imagine how the other person is feeling. This can help you respond in a way that is more understanding and helpful.

3. Communicate with Care

The way you communicate with others can either help or hinder your efforts to show empathy. When you’re talking to someone, use a calm and caring tone of voice. Avoid coming across as judgmental or condescending.

“One of the best approaches to managing people is to lead with empathy,” says Ryan Azimi, Director of International Development of ETIAS.

“When you can see things from the other person’s perspective and understand how they’re feeling, it’s much easier to find a resolution that works for everyone.”

A caring tone in communication can break down walls and help build trust. Try to think about the way you typically sound when you’re communicating with others.  If you tend to come across as harsh or unapproachable, try to soften your tone a bit.

4. Be Aware of Your Own Emotions

If you’re feeling stressed, angry, or frustrated, it will be difficult to show empathy for others. Before you respond to someone, take a few deep breaths and try to calm yourself down. This will help you be more present and understanding.

5. Don’t Be Afraid to Show Vulnerability

Sharing your own vulnerabilities can help build trust and rapport with others. It can also help them feel more comfortable opening up to you. When you’re sharing something personal, make sure to do so in a way that is respectful and appropriate for the workplace.

Leading with empathy in the workplace can be a challenge, but it’s important to try to see things from the other person’s perspective. By being aware of your own emotions and communicating with care, you can build trust and rapport with others.

“I like to think of empathy as the superpower of good leaders,” says Mark Sider, CEO, Co-Founder of Greater Than. “When you can understand how someone else is feeling, it makes it much easier to find a resolution that works for everyone.”

6. Be Aware of Your Body Language

Your body language communicates a lot, so be aware of what it’s saying when you’re interacting with others. Make sure your facial expressions and gestures show that you care about the person you’re talking to.

“I’ve found that one of the best ways to show empathy is through my body language,” says Rachel Reid, CEO of Subtl Beauty. “When I make eye contact, smile, and use an open and welcoming posture, it helps the other person feel seen and valued.”

7. Ask Questions

If you’re not sure how someone is feeling, ask them directly. This can be a good way to get a better understanding of the situation and how they are feeling about it.

Communication is the foundation of empathy. By taking the time to really listen and understand, you can build trust and rapport with others.

“As a leader, it’s my job to get to the bottom of what’s going on with my team,” says Melissa Rhodes, CEO of Psychics1on1. “I do this by asking a lot of questions and really listening to the answers. It’s the only way to truly understand what they’re going through and how I can best support them.”

Empathy is a powerful tool that can help you build trust, rapport, and understanding with others. By taking the time to see things from their perspective and communicate with care, you can make a positive difference in your workplace.

8. Offer Support

If someone is going through a tough time, offer your support. This could involve simply lending a listening ear or offering to help them with a task. Whatever you do, make sure it’s coming from a place of care and concern.

When you provide tools and solutions to overcome problems in the workplace, it shows your team that there isn’t anything you can’t work through together. 

As a result, you’re far less likely to see turnover or angry employees. It pays to build a cohesive team in your workplace, and empathy is a key ingredient.

9. Show Appreciation

Remember to show appreciation for the people you work with, even if they’re not going through a difficult time. A little recognition can go a long way in showing that you value their contribution to the workplace.

It’s no secret that many people respond better and are more loyal when they feel appreciated. Showing empathy in the workplace is one way to show your employees that you care about them and value their contributions.

Let your team know that you see their hard work and appreciate it. This will encourage them to keep up the good work and feel more connected to the workplace.

10. Be Flexible

Things change, and sometimes the best-laid plans don’t work out. When this happens, be flexible and adaptable

Leading with empathy in the workplace can be a challenge, but it’s worth it. By taking the time to understand others and communicate with care, you can build strong relationships and create a more supportive work environment.

Closing Remarks

Empathy is an essential skill for any leader. By taking the time to understand others and communicate with care, you can build trust, rapport, and understanding in the workplace. These ten tips will help you show empathy and build stronger relationships with your team.