Here’s a powerful example of the ways in which showing empathy can benefit the people we work with. A large study was done between 2006 and 2009 on diabetes outpatients at a university hospital. This was to show the correlation between empathy and positive change. The results showed that physicians who had the most empathy also got the positive clinical outcomes with their patients. In fact, patients who felt like their physician was compassionate and understanding had the best control over their haemoglobin levels. This reduced their symptoms and risks for their diabetic condition.
The importance of leadership empathy is too great to pass up. The example study was performed in the medical field. But you can apply this mindset no matter what organisation or team you work for.
About the author of this fast fact:
Eleanor Shakiba is a master trainer and coach. She specialises in teaching smart people to use positive psychology and breakthrough communication techniques. Eleanor loves working with people who make a positive difference to the world – including facilitators, trainers and HR practitioners. She is the author of the Positive Psychology Toolkit for HR and L&D practitioners. She also runs a range of retreats and workshops for trainers and facilitators.