Work teams are often led by people who are trained to achieve the organization’s goals and objectives. However, although leaders have the ability to drive teams to great achievements, in some cases, the leader’s expectations can be so high that they end up generating stress and exhaustion in the group, which can lead to “accusations” that the leader is too demanding with the workers.
Because of this, it is important to maintain a balance between leadership and empathy, especially to create a healthier, more productive, and harmonious work environment. Next, we will learn more about the importance of having a balance between leadership and empathy.
Motivation
Teams that have a balance between leadership and empathy have a higher level of motivation since their members perceive that the leaders are really concerned about their well-being, which increases the level of commitment and job satisfaction. All of this causes workers to have a higher performance since they are more willing to go beyond what is required.
Collaboration
When leaders manage to maintain a balance between leadership and empathy, they can improve collaboration within the work team, since there is greater trust and communication between team members, which allows them to support each other, share knowledge and work towards collective solutions.
Greater innovation
A safe and supportive environment encourages risk-taking, creativity, and innovation, as team members have fewer obstacles and are less afraid of expressing their ideas or failing to complete a project.
Teams, where members feel safe to express “unconventional” ideas tend to be more innovative. Empathy fosters this safety, while leadership provides the structure to explore these ideas.
Loyalty and retention
People tend to stay longer in an organization where they feel understood and valued, which significantly reduces employee turnover. Empathy transforms the workplace into a place where employees “want to be,” rather than one where they “have to be.”
Empathetic leaders who are also clear and effective in their direction increase job satisfaction, as employees feel their efforts are recognized and have a real impact on the organization. On the other hand, leaders who balance their expectations with understanding help mitigate stress and burnout, common factors for employee attrition.
What do you think about this topic? Have you been accused of being too demanding in your work team?
If you have any questions or queries, you can write your questions below (comments section).
