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Leading with Empathy

Writer's picture: Heather HigginsHeather Higgins

In a world facing constant challenges—from health crises and natural disasters to political unrest—one of the most critical leadership traits has emerged: empathy. Far from being a "soft skill," empathy is a powerful tool for navigating uncertainty and adversity. When leaders embrace empathy, they build trust, foster resilience, and strengthen connections within their teams and communities.


And let's be clear - leadership isn’t confined to job titles or paychecks—everyone has the ability to lead, regardless of their role or position. In fact, some of the most powerful leadership comes from those who don’t have an official title. These everyday leaders lead by example, offering support, fostering connection, and inspiring others simply through their actions. Whether it’s a parent guiding their family through tough times, a colleague lifting up their team with encouragement, or a volunteer stepping up in their community, these acts of leadership often have a greater impact than traditional, top-down approaches.


True leadership is about influence, empathy, and action, not authority, and anyone can make a difference by stepping up when others need it most.


Empathy Builds Trust and Connection


The global challenges of the past few years, such as political polarization, increasing economic inequality, and social issues like mental health, addiction, and social exclusion have underscored the importance of empathy in leadership.


Empathy allows leaders to see beyond the immediate issue and understand the human experience behind it. This is critical for building connections within teams in business and creating a supportive community for individuals. Studies show employees who feel heard and valued are more likely to collaborate, innovate, and remain loyal—essential qualities during times of upheaval. Leaders who practice empathy create a sense of safety, allowing their teams to weather storms more effectively.


The Business Case for Empathy


Empathy isn’t just about being kind—it’s good for business. Research by the Center for Creative Leadership shows that organizations with empathetic leaders outperform those without, with improved employee satisfaction and retention rates. In fact, empathetic leadership can reduce turnover by up to 50%. Employees are more likely to stay with companies where they feel understood and appreciated. Moreover, empathy extends to customer relations. People are drawn to businesses that align with their values and show genuine care, which can increase customer loyalty and brand reputation.


In times of crisis, this connection becomes even more critical. When leaders show empathy, they aren’t just managing through adversity—they are building long-term resilience by nurturing relationships and creating supportive environments.


Empathy as a Skill for Human Connection


Empathy and leadership are just as essential in our personal lives as they are in professional settings. We often forget that our families, friends, and communities need us to step up and lead with understanding and compassion. Whether it's offering a listening ear to a friend going through a tough time or supporting a family member facing personal challenges, leading with empathy in our personal lives creates deeper connections and strengthens relationships.


When we lead with heart and care for those around us, we not only lift others but also foster a sense of purpose and resilience in ourselves. Leadership in everyday life is about showing up for the people who matter most and making a lasting impact through kindness and empathy.


Practical Steps to Lead with Empathy


So, how can leaders develop and implement empathy in their leadership style? Here are a few practical steps to consider:


  1. Practice Active Listening - Active listening is at the core of empathetic leadership. Instead of simply hearing your team’s words, focus on understanding the emotions behind them. Ask open-ended questions, like “What challenges are you facing that I may not be aware of?” and truly listen to the responses. Follow up by acting on that feedback, showing that you value their input. Or inviting a friend to coffee to listen to what struggles they are facing or celebrating a personal achievement!


  2. Recognize Individual Needs - No two people experience challenges the same way. Empathetic leaders tailor their approach to meet the unique needs of each team member. During the rise of remote work, for example, some employees thrived, while others struggled with isolation. Empathetic leaders offered flexible solutions, creating an environment where all employees could succeed, regardless of their circumstances.


  3. Balance Empathy with Decisiveness - Empathy doesn’t mean avoiding tough decisions. In fact, leading with empathy helps leaders make better decisions because they consider the impact on their teams. The key is to balance empathy with decisiveness. While understanding your team’s needs, don’t let analysis paralysis stop you from making necessary moves. Empathy strengthens your decision-making process, ensuring that decisions are made with compassion and foresight.


The Path Forward


Leading with empathy isn’t always easy, especially in high-pressure situations. Empathy requires time, patience, and an emotional investment that can feel overwhelming during stressful periods. It is an on-going process of authenticity and evolution.


In today’s complex and unpredictable world, empathy is more than a leadership trait—it’s a necessity. As global challenges continue to emerge, leaders who embrace empathy will be the ones who rise above and bring their teams with them. By practicing active listening, tailoring your leadership to individual needs, and balancing empathy with decisive action, you can create a resilient and connected team ready to face the future.


Empathy doesn’t just make us better leaders; it makes us better humans.


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