I think the word “unprecedented” has been used more over the past two years than at any time in my recent memory. We have all grappled with a climate of change like no other while historical event after historical event occurred.
Now, in the midst of shortages in everything from supply chains to employees, those of us in the franchise world are fighting to build our
dreams in new ways. While most of us would likely agree that we could do without any more “unprecedented events,” I think this time presents an exciting challenge to cultivate a true culture of empathy and emotional intelligence in both our management teams and our entire employee family.
But…I Really Do Care About My People
There is no doubt that franchise owners are a people set apart from the typical workforce. Owning a franchise means you chased a dream, something you are passionate about and have worked tirelessly for. Those feelings go beyond the physical business and certainly bleed over into your employees.
Merriam-Webster defines empathy as the capacity of understanding someone else’s feelings. It’s an action, allowing you to dive deeper into knowing the hearts of those you work with. Incorporating empathy into your management style can build rapport with your team and eventually lead to increased sales and investments.
With Empathy Comes Emotional Intelligence
When I ask myself what my coworkers will remember about our interactions, I hope it is that I brought out the best in them! Emotions are so intertwined in our lives, and they will always play a role in our challenges and our successes.
When we are empathetic to other’s feelings, we are better able to control our own. Study after study has proven that managers that have displayed empathy toward their employees are viewed as more effective leaders.
How Can I Incorporate Empathy in the Day-to-Day?
There are two types of empathy: cognitive and affective.
Cognitive empathy implies that you have a sense of a person’s feelings and can respond appropriately to ease building emotions. Affective empathy is putting yourself in their shoes—not simply feeling sorry for them, but feeling their emotions with them.
Allowing yourself to engage with your team’s emotions as well as your own can create connection, decrease unnecessary judgments and keep your employees engaged. Actively listening, considering all perspectives in the face of a conflict and personalizing your communication can all garner a culture of empathy in your business.
Ready to turn your ability to empathize into a leadership skill? Get in touch today for help finding the franchise opportunity of your dreams!