Be More Empathetic: Your Team and Organization Will Thank You
When we consider the skills a good leader should possess, we frequently overlook empathy. However, in our fast-paced and stressful world, there has never been a better time to improve our ability to empathize.
Empathy plays a critical role in our personal and professional lives. It means recognizing the emotions of others and being able to imagine what someone else is thinking or feeling. By understanding and respecting others’ perspectives and needs (even if they’re different than your own), you’re fueling a connection.
Is empathy the same as sympathy? The short answer is no. When you feel sympathetic, you’re more likely to be understanding from your own perspective. Sympathy is more cognitive and doesn’t really connect you to the other person. And it rarely pushes you into action. But having empathy is identifying with the feelings of someone else and putting yourself in their shoes.
Empathy builds a connection and creates space for understanding and compassion.
Demonstrating empathy is what sets great leaders apart. It increases their effectiveness because empathy requires being truly present, allowing room for open communication and trust-building.
Are you concerned you lack the ability to be empathetic? Not to worry. While our personalities, life experiences, and ability to get in touch with our emotions can impact our empathy skillset, research shows that our natural ability to empathize can be enhanced.
In much of our client work, EPI helps businesses and their employees increase their empathy. Here are several ways you can boost yours:
Be fully present.
Be an active listener.
Think before you speak.
Ask questions instead of giving advice.
Avoid stereotyping or making assumptions based on your own perspective.
Proactively and directly ask how you can help.
Get to know others better.
Assume positive intention; give people the benefit of the doubt, while holding them accountable for their actions.
Remember a time you have needed or relied on the empathy of others.
You don’t have to be an expert in mental health or empathy to show you care and are paying attention. It’s enough to check in, ask good questions, and take cues from the other person on how much they want to share.
But sometimes it can be hard to know exactly how to begin an empathetic conversation. (And, as Brené Brown so wisely notes, it’s never helpful to start with the words “at least.”)
Here are some phrases that can help you get started:
I understand.
That sounds awful.
You must feel frustrated.
What can I do to help?
I'm sorry you are going through this.
I can see why you’re feeling upset.
I appreciate what you’re telling me.
Thank you for reaching out to me about this.
Empathy isn’t easy but it’s worth it.
By practicing empathy, you can help lower stress levels for yourself and others, boost overall well-being, and create a positive environment that leads to a happier and more engaged and productive workforce.