Howard Gardner developed the theory that intelligence comprises a wide range of cognitive abilities, logical-mathematical, spatial, linguistic, bodily-kinesthetic, musical, intrapersonal, naturalistic, and existential. However, one key trait within the intrapersonal abilities sets leaders apart but often does not come easy to those within leadership roles – cognitive abilities and empathy are crucial to improving follower behavior (Deliu, 2019). Empathy is key to determining the quality and effectiveness of leadership and drives positive results.
The emotional intelligence of a leader is a distinguishing factor as to the quality of their leadership and the willingness of followers to follow. Studies have shown there is a significant difference in empathy between poor and effective leadership, not the level of intelligence the leader has (Deliu, 2019). Notably, during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the level of empathy a leader has directly influences and increases the levels of the following factors – innovation, productivity, engagement, retention, inclusivity, and a healthy work-life balance (Bommel, 2021). The pandemic changed and challenged virtually every industry and led to a constant need to adapt and readjust to the continuous change. It challenged every management system but highlighted the need for empathy in crisis, particularly within the workplace (Bommel, 2021).
Image from SHRM, 2021
The difference between employee innovation and work engagement is staggering when compared to the level of management empathy. Employees were 34% more innovative when their managers had high levels of empathy and 43% more engaged when at work (Bommel, 2021). Empathy also fosters employee inclusion within the workplace; 50% of people with empathic leadership felt they experienced inclusion within the workplace compared to 17% when leadership was not empathetic. An effective leadership strategy is not about rules and regulations but rather about individuals (Deliu, 2019). Additionally, employees have more power than they ever did after what some refer to as the “Great Resignation.” 60% of employees in a recent study examining empathy in the workplace admitted to experiencing burnout (Bommel, 2021). They are actively searching for positions with leaders who understand the complexity and difficulty of the world today and lead with empathy and understanding of hardships and work and life needs.
The Power of Empathy in Times of Crisis and Beyond
Research has shown it is irrefutable that empathy is a critical factor to fostering a healthy workplace environment while also driving results. Empathy supports positive relationships between leaders and followers within the workplace and leads to more positive results. When employees are respected by leadership and viewed as people with complex lives and obligations outside of the workplace, it sets the tone for a more productive, inclusive, and positive workplace.
References:
Bommell, T. (2021, October 21). The power of empathy in times of crisis and beyond . catalyst.org. Retrieved January 31, 2022, from https://www.catalyst.org/reports/empathy-work-strategy-crisis
Deliu, D. (n.d.). Empathetic leadership key element for inspiring strategic … Retrieved January 31, 2022, from https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Delia-Deliu/publication/338066387_Empathetic_Leadership_-_Key_Element_for_Inspiring_Strategic_Management_and_a_Visionary_Effective_Corporate_Governance/links/5dfc7d0a299bf10bc368ff92/Empathetic-Leadership-Key-Element-for-Inspiring-Strategic-Management-and-a-Visionary-Effective-Corporate-Governance.pdf