The Strength of Empathy in Leadership

I was in a group meeting years ago where we did those typical personality tests that large gatherings usually entail. As we were broken into groups based on our main personality trait, two of the 10 women in the group, including me, were put in the empathy corner.

When others in the group were asked about how they felt about empathy as a leadership quality (this felt like a setup), a woman stated that empathy is a sign of weakness and isn’t ideal for a leader.

I hope at this point in the story, everyone is yelling, “Come on! That’s not true!”

Because it’s not true! Empathy is a superpower.

But to be fair, I understand why people might misunderstand empathy. To some, it might seem soft or unstructured—qualities that don’t align with the stereotypical image of a leader who is decisive, commanding, and unflinching. However, true leadership isn’t just about making quick decisions or barking orders. It’s about understanding people, building trust, and creating environments where teams can thrive. Empathy is the bridge to all of that.

Empathy allows leaders to listen more deeply. It helps them consider the perspectives and challenges of others, even when those perspectives differ from their own. This isn’t weakness—it’s a form of strength that leads to better decisions, more cohesive teams, and organizations where people feel seen and heard.

Let’s face it: people don’t follow titles. They follow people. And the leaders they choose to follow are often those who connect with them on a human level. Empathy enables that connection.

Empathy is what helps leaders recognize the unspoken struggles of a team member and offer support before it’s even asked for. It fosters innovation because when people feel safe and understood, they’re more likely to take creative risks. It’s also what ensures leaders don’t just solve problems but solve the right problems—the ones that matter most to the people they’re leading.

So, if someone ever questions whether empathy has a place in leadership, I encourage you to think of the leaders you’ve admired most. Chances are, their ability to listen, connect, and care was a big part of why you respected them. Empathy isn’t a liability—it’s the foundation of trust and understanding.

Empathy doesn’t make a leader weak. It makes them unstoppable.