Lovewell: A Theology - Day 34

February 3rd, 2023

Day 34

Romans 12:15
15 Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep.

Did you know that research has shown us that the most important leadership skill is actually Empathy?

Empathy really contributes to positive outcomes in the workplace and in places where servant leadership is required. Here are some interesting ways in which empathy helped create positive outcomes.

Innovation. When people reported their leaders were empathetic, they were more likely to report they were able to be innovative—61% of employees compared to only 13% of employees with less empathetic leaders.

Engagement. 76% of people who experienced empathy from their leaders reported they were engaged compared with only 32% who experienced less empathy.

Retention. 57% of white women and 62% of women of color said they were unlikely to think of leaving their companies when they felt their life circumstances were respected and valued by their companies. However, when they didn’t feel that level of value or respect for their life circumstances, only 14% and 30% of white women and women of color respectively said they were unlikely to consider leaving.
Inclusivity. 50% of people with empathetic leaders reported their workplace was inclusive, compared with only 17% of those with less empathetic leadership.

Work-Life. When people felt their leaders were more empathetic, 86% reported they are able to navigate the demands of their work and life—successfully juggling their personal, family and work obligations. This is compared with 60% of those who perceived less empathy. (https://www.forbes.com/sites/tracybrower/2021/09/19/empathy-is-the-most-important-leadership-skill-according-to-research/?sh=7dcaa2a53dc5)
With all this research, it is clear that we need to be leaders who show empathy to those who are around us. As well, as servant leaders, this is perhaps the place to begin our leadership journey.