Empathy may sound like a soft skill… But actually, empathy is a critical leadership skill and one needed now more than ever.
Aliza Knox, first female partner in Asia, Boston Consulting Group
Takeaways of Note:
4 Key ways to demonstrate empathy as a leader…
1. Be Inclusive… help ensure everyone feels tied to the Team by knowing what’s going on
2. Be Flexible… enable people to work from home when possible & provide access to technology that enables collaboration & remote skill-building
3. Model & Encourage Civility… i.e. take time to ensure emails can’t be misinterpreted as curt/rude; mitigate interruptions in video calls; monitor meetings to ensure speakers up last don’t get cut off; encourage team leaders to avoid sending so many emails as to feel bullying; don’t cancel meetings at last minute; don’t “snap”
4. Acknowledge the Human Factor… teams are composed of real people, with real, human needs; be curious about their lives (at least to a degree to connect & empathize with their experiences); notice contributions; accommodate their needs before they ask