By Ron Krit
In a world that's constantly evolving, one thing remains timeless – the power of empathy. As a firm believer in the transformational impact of leading with empathy, I want to share why it's important for a winning culture and how to harness its power effectively.
Active Listening
The first pillar of empathetic leadership is active listening. In a fast-paced world, it's easy to get caught up in the rush and overlook the nuances of communication. However, true understanding starts with actively listening to those around us.
Active listening goes beyond hearing words; it involves tuning into the emotions, concerns, and goals of others. It’s important to pay attention to nonverbal cues, like posture, fidgeting, and facial expressions. By engaging in this process, it will foster an environment where team members feel valued and heard.
Application: Put away distractions, make eye contact, and focus on truly understanding the message being conveyed. Ask, “How are you feeling today?” If you notice a direct report making unusual errors or rushing conversations, ask, “Do you need an extension or help?”
Asking Questions
Along with listening, asking questions is a powerful tool to gather insights and build a culture of openness and collaboration. Leaders who ask questions demonstrate a genuine interest in their team members' experiences and viewpoints. Your curiosity will empower team members to contribute more meaningfully.
Application: Make a conscious effort to ask open-ended questions that encourage team members to share their thoughts and insights. If you are trying to get your colleague to think deeper, after they give you an idea, ask them, “What else?” And have them sit in silence while they formulate new thoughts.
The Power of the Pause
In the quest for quick decisions and immediate responses, the art of pausing often takes a back seat. Yet, the power of the pause cannot be underestimated. Taking a moment before reacting allows leaders to respond thoughtfully rather than impulsively.
A deliberate pause showcases your composure and signals to others that their concerns are being seriously considered. It's a small but mighty gesture that can defuse tension, build trust, and lay the groundwork for collaborative problem-solving. As a leader, mastering the art of the pause positions you as a steady hand in challenging times.
Application: Challenge yourself to hold before responding, especially in high-pressure situations. When you receive a request for an extensive vacation when an individual just returned from a day off, silence the inner voice that wants to scream, “REALLY?” Pause for a moment, and focus on the individual, ask yourself:
Are they getting the work done?
Could something be going on with their family?
Is this really a big deal?
If this is above their limit, are they willing to take it unpaid?
And it’s okay to tell them you have to get back to them.
Ready to Foster a Culture of Empathy? Let's Connect!
If you're as passionate as I am about creating a workplace where empathy thrives, I'd love to partner with you. Together, we can cultivate a culture of empathy, creativity, and innovation. Here's to leadership that inspires, understands, and propels teams toward great success.
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