We think of the leader of an organization as the person in charge, the manager of operations, or the big cheese. There are all sorts of leaders--some effective and some dictatorial. The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines “leader” as someone who guides other people.
Researchers have determined that one of the top five qualities of successful leaders is empathy.
This characteristic of treating others as we would like to be treated is needed in all organizations. It seems especially ironic when an organization for the public benefit doles out empathy to its community, yet may not have a reserve of empathy to give to staff.
When you think of successful leaders, you probably see them as gregarious, competitive, and not afraid to speak-up. You no doubt see them spreading concern and advocating for others. Volunteers and staff find this type of leader more enjoyable to be around, and usually want to perform well for that leader. This attitude contributes to the good, and success, of the organization. With many current workers and volunteers considering themselves Millennials, they prize collaborating on projects, experiencing a work-life balance, and contributing to the organization’s cause. To them these attributes make a good work environment--and having an empathetic leader makes a good situation even more agreeable.
What can you do to up your empathy?
Consider comforting staff in times of distress or loss. Individuals embroiled in stress need emotional comfort. You may be well-versed in serving others, and you need to be well-versed in serving your own. A work environment laced with empathy and respect for others’ feelings entices and retains gifted volunteers. These volunteers help write grant proposals, solicit donations, and collaborate with other organizations in your community. Seeing things from another perspective can help you lead these individuals. When you think about it, empathy is the power behind the big-heartedness of charitable giving.
If you feel you don’t have true empathy,
you can learn it!
Set daily objectives to improve your empathy.
One of the best ways to develop empathy is to listen.
Be an active listener. Hear what your coworkers and teams are saying. Listen to followers, your volunteers and the community you serve. Actively listen. Avoid distractions and do not interrupt the other person. Listen, don’t look. When others are speaking to you, where are your eyes? Are they listening too? or looking at a screen.
Use reflective listening to show you are listing. Summarizing statements that show you understand. Use phrases such as “You think …, You feel…, and You are saying….” Summarize what someone said and repeat it back to them.
Spend some time with those your organization serves.
You and your volunteers can spend time with the recipients of your organization’s generosity and experience first-hand the impact of your efforts. You can’t help but have empathy for those you serve, and this translates to having empathy for each other--your staff, volunteers, and yourself.
Exuding empathy is one leadership skill that enhances your management expertise.
Consider your personal empathetic skills. Work on them. Enhance them so you can better lead your people. Compassion is a quality of top leaders. Make sure you are among those leaders.
Keep in touch with our blog. We have ideas to share and solutions to management and organizational questions. If you have questions about any other not-for-profit industry topics, contact our not-for-profit team leader at trent@tbfosteraccounting.com.
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