Empathetic Leadership: The Key to a Thriving Workplace

Dear HR Professionals,

I’d like to start this month’s newsletter with a story. A few weeks ago, a colleague, Caitlin, approached me about a workplace party she recently attended.

“I don’t like pizza, Johnny,” she jokingly said. “But I was more offended by the fact that my boss didn’t show up.”

That last part stuck with me.

Caitlin’s work party had been billed as a company listening session. The idea was to get feedback from employees and foster workplace relationships. On paper, it sounded like a great idea. But somewhere between planning and execution, the purpose of the event was lost. Employees noticed, and they were affected.

What is Empathetic Leadership?

Caitlin’s story is an example of why empathetic leadership is critical. Employees notice when you care, show up, and listen. Last year, at SHRM’s Annual Conference, I discussed how more employees are looking for empathy in their leaders. As leaders learn that, I am seeing two types of responses:

• Some leaders speak about empathetic leadership.
• Some leaders demonstrate empathetic leadership.

The difference? Sincerity. Leading with empathy is a commitment. It comes from the heart. And it benefits everyone — yourself, your team, and your company.

Be the Change: Tips for Creating a More Empathetic Workplace

It’s one thing to talk about how to lead empathetically. It’s another to do it.

• Pay Attention to Turnover: One-way leaders can assess whether they are being empathetic is through employee turnover. How often are employees leaving? Review their exit interviews. Did anyone note feeling unsupported or unwelcome? Provide surveys for current employees to express how they feel. Most importantly, take their comments as constructive criticism to create a more empathetic workplace.
• Create an Environment for Civility: There is an inextricable link between empathy and civility. If we lead with empathy, we foster civil workplace environments — ones where employees feel valued, supported, and heard. The more we listen to our employees, the more they will feel safe to open up about their concerns and needs.
• Bring Empathy into the Conversation on Culture: If a company’s culture is the cornerstone of organizational success, then empathy is the building block on which we build that culture. For leaders, this means exemplifying the qualities we want our employees to have. For HR professionals, it means reminding teammates we all serve as models for empathetic leadership.

Driving Forward – Conclusions?

Empathetic leadership is key to cultivating positive team dynamics, enhancing employee satisfaction, and driving organizational success. When leaders demonstrate genuine empathy, they create an environment where employees feel valued and understood — leading to higher morale and productivity. When 90% of our workforce believes empathetic leadership leads to higher workplace satisfaction, it becomes an undertaking impossible to ignore.?

Understandably, a shift toward empathetic leadership can seem like a major undertaking. The tips I’ve outlined don’t happen overnight! But there are actionable steps you can take right now. This includes listening to employees' concerns, showing genuine interest in their well-being, encouraging open communication, and providing support.?

Lastly, it’s on all of us to lead by example. Demonstrate empathy in your interactions and decision-making processes. Recognize and appreciate the diverse perspectives within your team. Strive to create an inclusive and supportive environment.

When we prioritize empathy, we build a more cohesive, motivated, and resilient team. We drive long-term success. And we create a workplace where everyone can thrive.

Warm regards,

Johnny C. Taylor, Jr., SHRM-SCP

President & CEO, SHRM