Source: The post Empathy builds better leaders and stronger workplaces has been created, based on the article “It Profits to Be Kind” published in “The Economic Times ” on 4th August 2025. Empathy builds better leaders and stronger workplaces.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper4-Work culture
Context: In the rush to embrace speed, innovation, and digital transformation, many organisations have overlooked the importance of human connection. This article calls for a rethinking of workplace culture by integrating empathy and kindness as essential elements of leadership and corporate functioning.
The Pitfall of Hyper-Productivity Culture
- Speed and Metrics Over Humanity: Modern businesses celebrate disruption, efficiency, and KPIs. In doing so, they often treat people as mere tools, neglecting emotional well-being.
- The Myth of the Tough Leader: The archetype of the harsh boss who demands instant results still dominates corporate stories. While they may achieve goals, they often leave behind demoralised, burnt-out teams.
- Consequences of Fear-Driven Culture: Leadership rooted in fear ultimately fails. It leads to high attrition and emotional exhaustion. Sustainable leadership needs emotional intelligence and compassion.
The Role and Dimensions of Empathy
- Three Types of Empathy: Stanford psychologist Jamil Zaki identifies:
- Cognitive empathy – understanding others’ feelings
- Emotional empathy – sharing those feelings
- Compassionate empathy – acting on those feelings
- Empathy as Organisational Glue: Empathy is compared to Wi-Fi—often invisible but vital. When absent, organisational systems break down.
- Empathy as a Leadership Strength: Empathetic leaders foster healthier, more cohesive workplaces. It’s a skill that can be developed, not an innate trait.
Tangible Benefits of Empathetic Workplaces
- Lower Attrition and Higher Retention: Understanding employees’ needs reduces turnover. Retaining talent through empathy saves cost and improves morale.
- Enhanced Innovation Through Safety: Creative risks thrive only when psychological safety exists. Empathy enables this environment.
- Stronger Reputation in Public Eye: In the age of social media, toxic work cultures are quickly exposed. Empathetic cultures earn lasting loyalty and brand value.
Practising Everyday Empathy at Work
- Real-Life Examples of Kindness: Empathy appears in small gestures—rescheduling meetings, offering dignity in feedback, and supporting personal challenges.
- Support for Women at Work: Empathy is crucial for gender inclusivity. It helps women navigate caregiving roles, maternity, and participate freely in professional spaces.
- Living the Value, Not Just Preaching It: Kindness must be demonstrated daily—celebrating efforts, writing thank-you notes, or showing concern for others’ well-being.
Shifting Expectations and Generational Demands
- Changing Workforce Priorities: Gen Z and millennials seek purpose-driven organisations that care for emotional health. They value managers who listen and engage meaningfully.
- Data Supporting Emotional Engagement: A May 2025 Deloitte study shows 69% of employees would work harder if appreciated. Gallup (2018) found 21% higher profitability in teams with engaged leaders.
- Lessons from the Pandemic: COVID-19 taught that human connection, not speed alone, defines memorable leadership during crises.
Institutionalising Empathy for the Future
- From Acts to Systems: Individual empathy must evolve into structured practices. Policies on mental health, parental leave, and team transitions should reflect this shift.
- Humour as a Leadership Tool: Used sensitively, humour can ease tension and build connection. When combined with empathy, it becomes a powerful asset.
- Embedding Empathy in Strategy: Empathy should be treated as a core organisational asset—measured, preserved, and reflected in every decision.
Question for practice:
Discuss how empathy can enhance leadership and workplace culture.
