Simply defined, empathy is the ability to understand and relate to the thoughts, emotions or experiences of others. It is more than just sympathy, which is being able to understand and support others with compassion or sensitivity; rather, empathy is the ability to step into someone else’s shoes – understanding their feelings and needs.

A study of 6,731 managers from 38 countries found that empathy in the workplace is positively related to job performance. In fact, managers who show more empathy toward their direct reports are seen as better performers by their bosses and employees perform better when they feel belonging and connection at work, which relies on them treating each other with empathy.

In this half-day interactive, in-class or online workshop, participants will learn about the important role of empathy in the workplace and how to use empathic communications to build connections with others through practical examples and simulations.

Learning Objectives

Program participants will:

• Understand how using empathy in the workplace reduces conflicts, increases the effectiveness of communications, fosters collaboration and builds trust
• Understand how to listen to others without judging and be able to see things from others’ perspectives
• Learn how to communicate with empathy using words and body language through practical exercises

Who Should Attend

All individuals within an organization that is struggling with conflict or tension in the workplace.

Prerequisite

None

Materials

The course manual contains presentation content and supplemental materials.