By William A. Gentry & Todd J. Weber
Center for Creative Leadership
Sadri Golnaz
Teachers College
Summary
Many managers today are ineffective in their positions due to a lack of empathy. Findings show that empathic emotion is related to positive job performance ratings. For managers in high- power-distance cultures where power is focused at higher levels, empathy is important in providing a paternalistic climate. Leaders can develop empathic skills by becoming a good listener, putting themselves in others’ shoes, showing compassion, and working across cultures.
Citation
Gentry, W. A., Weber, Todd J., & Golnaz, S. (2016). Empathy in the workplace: A tool for effective leadership [White paper]. Center for Creative Leadership. https://doi.org/10.35613/ccl.2016.1070