Leading with empathy can change the culture. Here’s how…
Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash
Yesterday was a day for celebration for half the country in the United States. It was the end of the current administration where some people felt the leader was only interested in some of the people. The other half of the country who did vote for the current administration is feeling distraught over the loss of the leader that they strongly supported.
It does seem we need a leader right now who can bring the country together. A leader who can lead with calm, clear minded focus and listen to people on both sides. Leading with empathy to understand the concerns of all people so that we can come together.
We can learn so much about what occurred in this country that will allow us to change cultures for the better. People want a leader who is inclusive and embrace diversity. Someone who can compromise with both sides so that we can learn to live and work together in a peaceful manner.
This transcends into leadership in the corporate world. I have often seen in the workplace leaders who only want to do things their way and not listen to the concerns of the people on their teams. This can only destroy a team’s morale and decrease productivity.
Leading with empathy allows you to stay calm and understand that your way isn’t always the right way. Changing to this way of leading can help change the culture for the better. Here’s how:
Put away the carrots and sticks - leading this way is only to encourage your people to embrace your way of thinking, but maybe your way of thinking isn’t the best approach. Asking people what their ideas are in changing a process or getting things done, spurs innovation and brings people together for a common goal.
Bring teams together to discuss opposing viewpoints - We all have different opinions and that’s ok, but let’s discuss them rather than dismissing them. Have you ever tried to bring up an opposing viewpoint in a meeting and been ignored? It happens often in the workplace and leads people to not want to speak up in a meeting. As leaders, we need to embrace people who may not agree with us. We may learn something from them.
Compromise - This is the only way to get to agreement with both sides. If you can get both sides to brainstorm about the best ways to tackle an issue, it can get them to a better place. I find the best way to do this is start with a Pros and Cons list. This encourages innovative thinking and starts to get people to work together.
Turn bias on its head - Bias still shows up in many ways. Leaders should spend more time learning about these biases so that they can treat all people the same. It’s not just about hiring diverse people, it’s understanding their concerns, their culture and then assisting them in becoming successful.
These are just a few ways to assist in changing a culture. I have already seen these changes occurring in the workplace and it is so refreshing. Leaders are listening and embracing a more inclusive workplace.
We still have a long way to go in this country. We are a country divided and there is fighting on both sides. We do need to listen to each other and empathize with each other. Until we learn to do this, we will remain far apart.
Leaders who can embrace differences, bring about compromise and practice empathy with all people can change the culture for the better. Every person’s voice needs to be heard and once that happens, change can occur.
Here’s to your success!
Best,
Rene