What is Empathy?
Empathy is now seen as one of the top qualities leaders need to possess as we move forward. The good news is that empathy isn’t something you need to learn how to develop as a leader. Instead, empathy is built in. Along with all the other traits and qualities that give rise to what it is to be human.
You feel naturally empathetic when the story of someone else situation touches something deep within you.
However, there’s a big difference between empathy and sympathy. Without fully understanding the difference, leaders may be forgiven for believing they are being empathetic when they jump into problem-solving mode or offer advice or condolences.
With a key focus on leaders being more empathetic when it comes to managing their people, we explore the true meaning and what it really means to connect with another human being.
In this podcast episode we explore;
- What is empathy
- The difference between empathy and sympathy
- What do leaders need to be empathetic?
- How the stress response prevents true connection
- The key role of self-awareness
- Steps you can take to develop your levels of empathy as a leader
Looking to enhance your leadership skills? Would you benefit from one-to-one coaching to help change some of your leadership behaviours for the better? Or would you like to raise your level of self-awareness to create more impact as a leader?
Sara Maude, a seasoned Solution Focused Psychotherapist, Transformational Coach, Hypnotherapist, and EFT Practitioner, brings over a decade of mental health expertise to global organisations. She specialises in workplace wellbeing training, employee health and wellbeing programs and mental health training for managers. Sara’s proficiency also extends to wellbeing consultancy and wellbeing strategy, contributing significantly to the enhancement of employee wellbeing in the workplace.