Empathy: The Leadership Skill You Can’t Ignore

Empathy is often innate in childhood—kids naturally feel upset when they see someone in pain or trouble. But as we grow up, especially in fast-paced work environments, empathy often takes a backseat. A recent survey of 1,000 U.S. workers revealed that 52% felt their company’s efforts to show empathy weren’t genuine. This disconnect highlights a critical gap: what leaders think they’re doing versus how employees actually feel.

With 2025 approaching, leaders have an opportunity to rethink their approach. Empathy isn’t just a “soft skill”—it’s a necessity that creates respect, improves productivity, and enhances retention.

Active Listening: The Foundation of Empathy

Empathy isn’t about personally relating to an experience—it’s about showing genuine compassion and effort to understand someone’s perspective. Harvard Business Review emphasizes that active listening is key to authentic empathy.

• Use body language: Uncrossed arms, nodding, and eye contact signal that you’re engaged.
• Be present: Avoid thinking about your response while someone is speaking. Listen to understand, not just to reply.

For leaders, this means giving employees your undivided attention. Acknowledge their concerns, even if you don’t have immediate answers.

Recognize and Overcome Bias

Leena Nair, CEO of Chanel, champions empathetic leadership and notes the importance of valuing diverse voices—not just the loudest ones. Leaders must check their biases to ensure all perspectives are heard and valued.

• Bias awareness helps counter tendencies like confirmation bias, where leaders seek out opinions that align with their views.
• Creating collective intelligence by listening to quieter or differing voices leads to better, more informed decisions.

Empathy thrives when leaders acknowledge these biases and actively work to overcome them.

Externalize Empathy Through Action

Empathy isn’t just about understanding—it’s about action. Genuine leaders don’t just listen; they find ways to support employees concretely.

When someone shares a challenge, responses like “That sounds tough. Can you share more so I can better support you?” demonstrate compassion without assuming you know their experience.

Leaders can take this further:

• Check in personally: Go beyond open-door policies by reaching out individually.
• Collaborate on solutions: Work together with employees to navigate challenges.

Prioritizing these efforts creates engagement and trust, helping employees feel valued and supported.

Why Empathy Matters for Leaders

Empathy builds stronger connections, drives collective problem-solving, and boosts retention. Employees who feel heard and supported are more engaged, productive, and loyal. As we enter 2025, leaders who prioritize authentic empathy will stand out—not just as bosses, but as role models.

True empathy doesn’t just exist—it’s expressed, practiced, and demonstrated every day.