Can you clearly exhibit both empathy and a drive to succeed when you serve in a leadership position? A study from Zenger-Folkman, linked below, indicates these attributes are not mutually exclusive and when a leader possesses both, team performance soars.
However, is it possible to exhibit an excess of either drive or empathy? Of course. An excessive focus on driving results will suggest a leader doesn’t care about team members, their well-being or development.
An overemphasis on empathy suggests results and
performance may be sacrificed and suggests a tendency to try to always make every
employee happy - which is impossible.
As an example, I am aware of a manager who always
granted requests for additional vacation days beyond allocations seemingly without
consideration of the impact on the team and other employees. This was very
detrimental to team morale and performance.
Personal Reflection
When I reflect on my work and consider feedback from 360 reviews, I’m sure I exhibit publicly a greater focus on drive. I’m confident that one-on-one, privately, I am adept at listening, showing respect, and being empathetic.
This
said, I continue to believe that in many organizations, more focus on results
is required, although not at the expense of empathy and respect for the humans
who are employed with the organization. Organizations and teams are assembled
to achieve a purpose and results. Leaders achieve results.
The Zenger-Folkman study indicates
Only 15% of leaders excel at both
empathy and drive. Those who master
this balance rank in the 91st percentile
for overall leadership effectiveness.
The full report is available here. Other competencies highlighted include AI and digital literacy, continuous development, and purpose-driven leadership
https://zengerfolkman.com/ebooks/leadership-skills-2025-report/
How To Develop Empathy
The following is a good primer on developing empathy.
One of the five tips offered in the article is to not commiserate, that is to
not jump in and agree with a viewpoint expressed. This requires very good
skills in listening and effectively seeking to understand a point of view.
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/wander-woman/201911/5-steps-for-developing-real-empathy
Exhibiting Empathy In Team Meetings
There are many fine resources available on the topic
of integrating empathy during team meetings. The link below provides advice on
including personal check-ins and personally showing doubts and vulnerability. I’ve
made some adjustments to my approach as a result of this advice. There is a
balance between showing confidence that the team will achieve its’ purpose, and
showing some concern about progress.
https://realitypathing.com/how-to-integrate-empathy-in-daily-team-meetings/
Conclusion
The study I’ve quoted from Zenger-Folkman indicates only
15% of leaders excel at both empathy and drive.
Opportunities are immense for these 15%.
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