Cultivating empathy in the workplace: The crucial role of soft skills

Credit: IRStone/Adobe Stock

Most forward-thinking companies have ditched the playbook that advocates hiring for culture fit. Instead, they look for people who will add to their culture. And enrich their organization with new perspectives and experiences. But recruitment is just the start. An inclusive hiring strategy needs to be supported by an inclusive workplace culture.

Empathy and understanding are the glue that holds the modern workplace together. More than a nice-to-have, they’re the foundation on which future business success is built. How do we know? Eighty-seven percent of employees agree they’re the cornerstone of inclusivity.

Leadership plays a big part in fostering empathy and inclusivity in the workplace. Eighty-six percent of employees say leaders who show true understanding elevate their mood. But this ability doesn’t always come naturally. It takes the right set of soft skills to turn leaders in title only, into true empathetic and effective managers.

Understanding empathy in the workplace

Imagine a team where everyone is encouraged to share their sentiments and insights. And where everyone feels those insights are heard and understood. This is a team where every interaction becomes a chance for individuals to learn and grow together.

Empathy in the workplace means putting yourself in someone else’s shoes. And actively seeking to understand their feelings and perspectives. This understanding is key to building strong teams. Because when people feel understood, they’re more open, honest, and committed.

Empathy changes how team members talk and work together. With empathy, everyone’s more willing to share ideas, listen, and give constructive feedback. This leads to better problem-solving and creativity.

Let’s see this with an example.

Think of a team working on a tight deadline, and one member, Cindy, is falling behind. Without empathy, teammates might get frustrated, blaming Cindy for the delay. But with empathy, they try to understand her situation, discovering she’s been dealing with some personal issues.

Instead of frustration, there’s an offer of support. Maybe reallocating tasks or extending deadlines. This not only helps Cindy feel valued but it also strengthens the team’s bond. They move from working together to working for each other.

Nurturing soft skills for empathy

Soft skills are crucial for creating a workplace where empathy and understanding thrive. Specifically, the ability to listen, communicate effectively, show compassion, and understand others’ perspectives.

And it starts at the top.

According to a TalentLMS and BambooHR survey, the top traits Gen Zers value in their managers are empathy, honesty, and listening skills. This highlights a significant shift towards valuing emotional intelligence in leadership. The good news is, when managers and team leaders demonstrate these traits, it sets a powerful example for the entire team. Which, in turn, fosters a more supportive and cohesive work environment.

Training is key to building a culture of empathy

Empathy and emotional intelligence are heavily linked.

By investing in the development of soft skills, organizations can boost emotional intelligence. And pave the way for more empathetic leadership. Soft skills training also underpins a more diverse and inclusive workplace culture.

But how do you train for interpersonal skills like these? To reinforce learning and allow for in-the-moment feedback, soft skills training programs are often live and interactive. Delivery methods may include workshops, role-playing or role modeling, and team-building activities.

Such initiatives not only equip employees with the tools to understand and connect with their colleagues. They also encourage a work environment where everyone feels valued and understood.

The impact of empathy on organizational success

In empathy-driven workplaces, employee satisfaction and productivity bloom. When leaders and teams practice empathy, they encourage everyone to feel understood and valued. The focus isn’t only on feeling good. But on performing well, too. Employees in empathetic workplaces are more engaged, motivated, and committed to their work. Why? Because they know their feelings and wellbeing matter. This boosts morale and, in turn, productivity. Happy employees are more likely to put their best foot forward every day.

Empathy also holds teams together when the going gets tough. Empathetic leaders can recognize and address stress, anxiety, or uncertainty among team members. By doing so, leaders can foster a sense of security and support, encouraging teams to embrace adaptability and show resilience. This environment allows team members to speak up about challenges, share innovative solutions, and navigate through tough times together.

Related: HR leaders worry about skills gap as boomers exit, Gen Z enters

Leadership beyond titles and embracing culture adds

Choosing culture add over culture fit is key for inclusive teams. Instead of opting for people who blend in, it’s crucial to look for those who bring new perspectives and strengths. This approach enriches teams, sparking innovation and understanding. It shows that everyone’s unique background is valued. And it fosters a truly diverse and inclusive environment.

But a culture add approach can’t thrive without empathy-driven leadership. Leaders who show empathy understand their team’s needs and perspectives. How? By leading by example rather than authority. They break down traditional hierarchies. And they make the workplace more inclusive and collaborative. This encourages everyone to contribute their best, regardless of their position.

Empowering workplaces with empathy and soft skills training

Empathy and understanding foster a positive and productive working environment. They lead to improved teamwork, communication, and employee wellbeing. And an inclusive culture rich in diversity and collaboration.

But these qualities don’t grow organically. It takes targeted soft skills training to build empathetic teams and empathetic leaders. And to nurture a workplace where everyone feels valued and understood.

The good news is, get the training right, and the rest (innovative solutions, collective success and more) will follow.

Christina Gialleli, Director of People Operations at Epignosis