#329: Q - How much empathy should you have? A - 37%
About this episode
Ben explores the balance between empathy and accountability in leadership.
In this episode, Ben explores an important distinction between empathy and accountability. Inspired by a question raised during a training workshop, he explains why empathy should always be present in leadership, but why that doesn't mean avoiding difficult conversations or lowering standards. This episode looks at how leaders can understand the challenges their people are facing while still making appropriate decisions about performance, behaviour and consequences. Key Takeaways Empathy is about understanding another person's perspective, not necessarily agreeing with their behaviour. Leaders should separate empathy from accountability. The level of accountability required often depends on what is at stake. Compassionate leadership does not mean avoiding consequences. Understanding context helps leaders respond more thoughtfully and fairly. Memorable Quote "You can have empathy 100% of the time, but just because you have empathy does not mean you can't take action." Resources Mentioned Work with Ben .
More episodes of The Thoughtful Leader Podcast with Ben Brearley
- #336: Is a work team really similar to a professional sporting team?
- #335: Don't bring an "Engineering mindset" to your team.
- #334: "Don't bring me problems, bring me solutions."
- #333: That wouldn't work in my team - or would it?
- #332: 5 things you'll need to deal with that difficult person.
- #331: Are you walking on eggshells in your team?
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