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Empathy is an important trait for a successful leader. It’s vital for managers to be able to put themselves in the shoes of their team members to understand how to best lead during the good times and the bad. So what exactly is empathy, and how can you show more of it on the job, as a leader? Here’s what to know.

How Can You Build a Strong Team Through Understanding?

What is Empathy?

Empathy is the ability to understand how others feel and be aware of their thoughts and needs. It’s about being person-focused and not simply self-aware. And according to studies, leading with empathy has a positive impact on companies and bottom-line results. In fact, those who can lead with empathy are often viewed as better bosses by their people.

How to Lead With Empathy at Work

If you’re a leader, you need to meet goals and achieve bottom-line results, while being an empathetic and compassionate boss. It’s certainly a tough challenge. To help you, here are a few ways you can add a dose of empathy to the way you lead.

Be a good listener.

As a leader, you might find yourself talking more than listening. But in order to develop empathy for those you employ, it’s important to be an active listener and to ask questions. When employees feel heard by you, it will set the stage for a healthier, more productive relationship.

Get to know your team members.

When you get to know each of your employees individually, you’ll better understand their needs, desires, motivations, and personal situations. This will go a long way in helping you to be more empathetic to them.

Show sincere interest in them.

In addition, once you know your team better, you can work to understand how to best match assignments and help them to become a positive contributor to the team. This ultimately leads to higher employee satisfaction and better results for the company.

Look for signs of burnout.

If you’re noticing an employee who is usually a solid performer suddenly isn’t, check in with them. Find out what’s going on and look for ways to help. When you identify signs of burnout early, it’s easier to overcome and avoid in the future.

Identify ways to support and encourage your team.

Be open and communicate often with your team members. This will help to facilitate more trust and loyalty, ultimately building a stronger staff in the long run. Employees will feel more supported and also feel comfortable coming to you when they’re facing an issue or problem.

Do you need help adding to your team?

If you’re finding out employees are stretched thin, and it’s time to hire, OneSource Staffing Solutions is the answer. We can source, screen, recruit, and help you hire the dependable, hardworking people you need in wide range of fields, whether on a temporary or full-time basis. It’s why so many companies across PA and IL trust our staffing agency. Ready to do the same? Contact us today