A global pandemic, Depression-level unemployment, civil and political unrest –across all countries. it feels as if the world as we know it is faltering. Now more than ever, it’s imperative for leaders to demonstrate compassion.
Compassion is the quality of having positive intentions and real concern for others. Compassion in leadership creates stronger connections between people. It improves collaboration, raises levels of trust, and enhances loyalty. In addition, studies find that compassionate leaders are perceived as stronger and more competent.
While compassion isn’t something you’re born with, it does grow out of considerate behaviour; a kind word here and a generous gesture there can really make someone’s day. Even the smallest and simplest acts can have the biggest impacts.
Fortunately, becoming a compassionate leader is possible with focus and effort. Take a look at these 5 steps to get you started.
1. Take a Moment to Really Learn About Your People: A considerate and compassionate leader understands that “I” isn’t especially useful as a conversation starter. When leaders stop focusing on their own egos they’re able to develop other leaders. The entire practice of compassion is about going from self to others—from “I” to “we.”
2. Show Your Gratitude for the Work They Do: We all want to be appreciated for the good work we do, and to feel that we play an important role in the companies we work for. When leaders show appreciation and gratitude to their employees, they clearly demonstrate their kindness—earning the respect, admiration and loyalty of their people in return.
There are lots of ways for leaders to show they care through support, mentorship and guidance, and especially approval. When a leader expresses recognition, employees feel appreciated and organizations accomplish great things.
3. Be the Bridge that Links Your Employees: When you are kind, your people don’t feel that you’re a cold robot—simply barking orders and demanding obedience. Instead, through outward and visible displays of warmth, you’re able to show how much you care about others—and experience firsthand just how much others care about you in return.
Make teamwork an attractive aspect of workplace culture. Less burnout, increased trust among peers and enhanced interpersonal relationships will result. An environment where everyone can collaborate by sharing their ideas and offering creative solutions is an organization that thrives and—not coincidentally—where leadership excels.
4. Understand Your Reach Goes Beyond the Workplace: The way you lead impacts the way people live. As leaders, you need to do good while doing less harm. You should provide resources to help facilitate healthier living while fostering caring environments where team members have opportunities to become their best selves.
5. If You Talk the Talk, You Have to Walk the Walk: The best leaders are those who lead from the heart. Those who have the ability to inspire others through kindness, flexibility, support and empowerment. The best way to accomplish that is simply to be a genuinely positive person. It’s that easy.
When you treat people with compassion they won’t soon forget. You cultivate people who want to work for you not because of what you do but because of who you are. We at Anantam offer corporate workshops and training to help integrate and manage workplace issues.
Call/WhatsApp Ms Seema Agarwal: +91 98205 76682