𝗖𝗨𝗟𝗧𝗨𝗥𝗔𝗟 𝗚𝗔𝗜𝗡𝗦 (Compassion pt 1)

𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 plays a crucial role in fostering a productive, positive workplace. Yet, the overuse of compassion or its timing can cause more problems than it fixes.

Today, I focus on the positives. As you read this, and find several points obvious, challenge yourself honestly: could you do more to optimise this benefit? This set of positives lays the foundations for tomorrow’s ‘chapter’ in which the tangible benefits to the organisation are discussed.

𝗗𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 are promoted naturally in a compassionate culture. This is not only about equality, but also the benefit of having all staff feel they are included – in news, changes, results, and where appropriate in decision-making. Today’s best leaders can engage constructively with diverse groups of people. If a broader range of stakeholders are involved, the inclusive nature of a business is enhanced.

Compassionate leadership significantly impacts 𝗲𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗼𝘆𝗲𝗲 𝘀𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘀𝗳𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗿𝗲𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻. A study by EY revealed that 90% of workers believe empathetic leadership leads to higher job satisfaction and reduces employee turnover. Workplace cultures that achieve high levels of employee satisfaction have been linked to a reduced burnout and more than a 12% increase in productivity.

Linked to this is 𝗲𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗼𝘆𝗲𝗲 𝗲𝗻𝗴𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁. Compassion increases engagement in the organisation, so there are more team players, and staff are keen to follow their respective leader/manager.

Staff develop quicker and more in line with the organisation's needs where there is compassionate leadership. They have a greater 𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝘃𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗹, creating a virtuous circle. By focusing on what drives their people, leaders can create a purpose that truly motivates them - compassion is needed to get that understanding.

We are scared of being wrong. Worse, being made to feel silly for being wrong. So, 𝗶𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 is directly linked to compassionate leadership. Diverse perspectives are gained, and staff will readily volunteer ideas. A study found that 61% of employees with compassionate leaders regard their company as more innovative.

A more caring, compassionate leader significantly builds 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗮𝗱𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆. There is naturally more trust within the teams, and this is powerful with staff being less afraid of speaking up. Leaders who show compassion can help rebuild in new and effective ways, and employees readily support them.

Creating a compassionate work culture over a stress-driven one leads to happier workplaces and indirectly an improved bottom line. Positive social interactions at work have been shown to boost employee health and enhance their commitment and engagement with their job. This means less lost time to absence plus staff actually enjoying their time at work.

Tomorrow, how all this translates into benefits for your organisation.