Practising empathy at workplaces
Empathy is the human ability to put oneself in other person’s shoes and feel what they feel. In other words, being compassionate although you haven’t experienced the same emotions.
For instance, it’s like when you watch a movie and you are sad or mad about things happening on the screen. If we can feel empathetic about movies it should be easy to feel the same way in real life too, right?
Surprisingly, it is easier said than done. If we think someone is better at something the fear of being judged takes over and our defense mechanism in our big brains kicks in. To be fearless, confident and appreciate ideas or opinions one must be capable of experiencing empathy.
Being non judgemental towards others can be beneficial as everyone wants to be treated the same way, as oneself. It’s about lending a ear and to listen carefully before drawing inferences.
In my opinion, especially in diverse workplaces understanding the cultural differences should be an integral part of orientation into the company. In engineering fields, these differences are also what people bring to the table, innovative ways of solving problems.
In my opinion, especially in diverse workplaces understanding the cultural differences should be an integral part of orientation into the company. In engineering fields, these differences are also what people bring to the table, innovative ways of solving problems.
What one can do at workplaces to be more empathetic?
- Appreciate little things at work. For instance, if someone does something nice for you or the team adds some value however small, be vocal about how grateful you are. Celebrate small milestones and keep up the spirit.
- If your colleague is sick and informs the team, wish them well and show them how happy you are to have them back.
- In case someone is struggling with something they don’t know make them feel comfortable to discuss the problem and tell them they don’t have to know everything. It’s all about figuring out things together.
- Be supportive to team members and show solidarity when required. Have each other’s back but also fight for what you believe. In other words, be polite in your communication and disagree respectfully.
- Treat people with respect and remember people are not machines. Everyone has problems, emotions which might give rise to conflicts that need resolution. Have a conflict resolution strategy in place as a company process. Take appropriate actions. It is paramount to fix emotions over fixing bugs in the code.
- Be open to feedback especially from your immediate colleagues you work with regularly. The notion is team members cannot go to managers with feedback or problems. But the truth is good managers are friendly and approachable to hear one’s problems. Ask people for one on ones with lunch or coffee and talk it over. If you’re on the other end, show them you are ready for modifications or to take necessary actions within your limitations and make them feel heard. Nobody has all the answers but trying is crucial.
- Be transparent in things you are assigned to especially if you need help shout out and also be approachable when others do. Everybody needs help. Ideally, most good companies perpetuate the “public by default” ideology. If things are confidential or secret by nature it’s already a red flag in my opinion and demands immediate attention!
- Be appreciative of the opportunity, do not take anyone for granted. In turn, send kudos, appreciative emails and recognise if someone is awesome or does a kind deed.
Of course everything in moderation and should feel authentic and not because you read this article. :P
Empirically, it is proved by several institutions over and over again that — when people are happy, have everything they need, additionally if they have a peace of mind at work they can excel at their jobs and develop loyalty towards the company. Loyalty is crucial when it comes to long term productivity and growth of people and businesses. Enable each other and empower the ones who needs it the most so nobody is left behind. Good people lift each other up.
After all, that being said we are all here to not just make money but to learn and grow, share laughs, cherish moments and lead a balanced healthy life. Hope we can agree on this?
Do you think any other points are missing from my list?
Leave a comment and express your thoughts.
Leave a comment and express your thoughts.
