In an article on forbes.com titled, Empathy as a Workplace Superpower, the author, Jason Richmond, notes the importance of leaders showing empathy to their team members. Jason’s next suggestion in this series is to become an active listener.
Although I’m typically a good listener, I’m known to have a poker face making it hard for people to read me. When I’m most successful at showing empathy, it’s because I’m seeking understanding by paraphrasing what they said, or asking clarifying questions.
Proverbs 3:13 prescribes, “Blessed is the one who finds wisdom, and the one who gets understanding, for the gain from her is better than gain from silver and her profit better than gold.”
Truly seeking understanding helps your teammates feel heard; while helping you connect with them more deeply.
