One of a leader’s most valuable skills is empathy- seeing another person’s perspective.
Empathy, as a manager and a leader, encompasses understanding and sharing the emotions, thoughts, and experiences of those we lead. It goes beyond mere sympathy or surface-level understanding and involves genuinely connecting with individuals on a human level. Empathetic leaders actively listen, seek to understand different perspectives, and consider the impact of their decisions on others. They create a supportive and inclusive work environment where individuals feel valued, heard, and understood.
Admittedly, it can be tough to empathize with others in certain situations! I’ve found that it’s critical to let go of my ego and become genuinely curious about the other person’s perspective.
The more clearly you understand the viewpoint of your team members and coworkers, the better positioned you are to find a solution.