Empathy. It’s a word we hear a lot these days. How often do we put it at the forefront of our leadership training with young professionals? After three decades in youth development, I can tell you this: empathy isn't just a soft skill. It is at the heart of strong leadership. And if you’re working with young leaders, it’s non-negotiable.
Young leaders are stepping into an uncertain world. They are learning to navigate their own paths while taking on the responsibility of guiding others. They are watching how we lead to figure out what leadership should look like. If we only show them authority without empathy, we risk raising leaders who cannot make decisions. Ones that struggle to connect on a human level. We know that connection is what matters most.
Let’s get one thing straight for sure, empathy is not sympathy. It’s not about feeling sorry for someone. Empathy is about understanding them. Empathy allows leaders to see through someone else’s eyes. It allows them to recognize their experiences and encourages them to make decisions that respect those experiences. Empathy is also important in managing conflict. It’s the foundation of emotional intelligence, and you know how essential that is for effective leadership.
As a mentor, you play a big role in developing empathy in the young people you lead. Here’s how you can make sure empathy is a skill they’re developing along the way:
1. Model Active Listening: How often are we truly practicing it? We must listen to them without distraction. Let them finish their thoughts and reflect back what you’re hearing. Make sure to ask any clarifying questions that you have. Show them that their words matter.
2. Encourage Storytelling: People connect through stories. When you encourage leaders to share their own experiences and listen to the stories of others they start to see the world through a different lens.
3. Lead by Example: If you want them to be empathetic, you need to show them what that empathy looks like. Transparency, understanding, and compassion will set the standard for the type of leadership they will embody.
You have the privilege of shaping the next generation of leaders. And while we can teach them the technical skills they will need to be effective, it’s the human skills we can model. Leading with empathy will set you apart from other supervisors. Empathy allows leaders to build trust creating a place where people feel valued. Empathy isn’t something you teach once and walk away from. It’s a muscle that needs to be developed over time. You need to create opportunities for young leaders to practice it. Above all you need to model it in your own leadership.
In the end, cultivating empathy in young leaders doesn’t just make them better at their jobs, it makes them better people. And if you ask me, that’s exactly what our world needs right now.
Remember to:
Practice Active Listening: Show young leaders how to listen fully, without distractions. Help them reflect on what they’ve heard before jumping to conclusions or offering solutions.
Promote Storytelling: Create spaces where young leaders can share their stories and listen to the stories of others. It’s through these stories that empathy is truly built.
Let’s commit to developing empathy in the young leaders we mentor. Together, we can shape compassionate, connected leaders for tomorrow.
