The Importance of Empathy in Leadership

Empathy

“the ability to understand and share the feelings of another”

It might seem like a trait that all people naturally have, but you will be surprised how often in business this simple characteristic can set apart an effective verse an ineffective leader. 

Empathy not only starts with your employees but also channels right through to your wider networks. It is important for managing organisational changes and even more essential for managing people and relationships.   

Here’s why all leaders should be exercising empathy in business.

Show Appreciation. Be Thankful.

The easiest and most effective way to show true empathy is by saying “Thank you”, such a simple yet mindful gesture. 

Being grateful to your employees, co-workers, leaders and clients is an effective way to build longstanding, genuine relationships built on trust. By showing appreciation in the workplace you are creating a collaborative working environment amongst your team which ultimately has a positive impact on staff retention. 

Listen & Be Mindful

As leaders we are always trained to drive, support and develop employees and can forgot that listening is a major part of the coaching piece. 

Throughout my years of managing teams, I’ve found by having an open mind, checking in with my staff regularly and listening to their needs has been the most successful way to manage. Most manager will do all the talking with very little listening – People want to be heard. By listening to your staff, their opinions and taking onboard their feedback you will not only gain trust but understand their true needs and how to manage accordingly. 

Lead from the Front 

As a manager the way to be understanding of your staff and the market you work within is by being “on the tools”. When leading from the front, you get a true insight of your staff and the daily challenges they face. 

It is hard to understand market trends and fluctuations when you are detached from the day to day and solely focused on managing. Setting an example is a positive way to demonstrate quality leadership skills whilst understanding your team’s needs.

With the current climate, it is important more than ever to show empathy with your staff. People want to feel valued, appreciated and supported especially in times of the unknown. Make sure you are checking in with your staff daily, gaining their feedback, listening to concerns and most of all invest in their development. Solid relationships built around long lasting trust and empathy is crucial to any business’s success. 

Are you currently looking to expand your team? Then contact the Stitch Team for all your recruitment needs. We have an extensive network of temporary and permanent candidates readily available.