6 answers
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How do you show empathy when working with clients, customers, or coworkers ?
How do you show empathy when working with clients, customers, or coworkers?
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6 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Advisor | Freelance Writer | TRIO Program Director
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Tacoma, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
I think that you can show empathy through a number of different ways.
I have always emphasized kindness, when an individual is experiencing adversity in their life. This can be demonstrated through simple acts of kindness, considering the rights and feelings of others before your own, and showing sincere care for an individuals life and concerns.
One of the best examples, that I can think of, is prioritizing the needs of your employees and helping them become their best selves, which is consistent with the primary components of empathy, such as understanding and relating to others' perspectives and struggles.
I truly believe that prioritizing the needs and goals of others, over one's own, is the basis of empathetic behavior and the foundation of good leadership.
I have always emphasized kindness, when an individual is experiencing adversity in their life. This can be demonstrated through simple acts of kindness, considering the rights and feelings of others before your own, and showing sincere care for an individuals life and concerns.
One of the best examples, that I can think of, is prioritizing the needs of your employees and helping them become their best selves, which is consistent with the primary components of empathy, such as understanding and relating to others' perspectives and struggles.
I truly believe that prioritizing the needs and goals of others, over one's own, is the basis of empathetic behavior and the foundation of good leadership.
Updated
Katie’s Answer
Active listening is key! Really take the time to hear what the customer/client is saying, rather than interrupting or preparing your reaction hastily. It's okay to pause and think through your response once the customer has finished talking. Try to empathize and put yourself in the individual's shoes. Be thoughtful and compassionate.
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Audrey’s Answer
Empathy is the act of putting yourself in someone else's shoes and truly feeling/understanding what they are experiencing. Practicing empathy involves actively listening, asking clarifying questions to understand the situation better, relating to the situation with your own experiences, and thinking about the emotions that the other person is likely feeling. Another important thing to note is that we don't always know the full picture and we may not understand how one scenario fits into a person's busy life. Try to think about the situation as a whole - what else could this person be juggling and how does that affect their perspective on this situation? Something may not seem like a big deal to you, but to the other person it could carry a lot more weight, especially if their are other factors at play that you are not aware of. Be kind and do your best to understand the situation from their point of view.
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Patricia’s Answer
I'm so glad you're asking this question. It's wonderful to see your curiosity and eagerness to learn. Showing empathy can be as easy as asking someone how they're doing and really listening to what they say. Once you know how they feel, you can figure out if they need anything from you. Empathy means putting yourself in someone else's place and connecting with them emotionally. While sympathy is feeling sorry for someone, empathy is about truly understanding their feelings.
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Julie’s Answer
To be empathetic, begin by imagining yourself in someone else's position. Try to understand what a client or coworker is asking or telling you. Focus on building that connection by silently recalling any past experiences that may help you relate to their situation. Show empathy by making eye contact and rephrasing what you think they are saying. This helps them feel heard and allows them to correct any misunderstandings. Finally, acknowledge their feelings by saying things like "You must be frustrated" or "Thank you for sharing that with me."
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Wintora’s Answer
Listening carefully is key to showing empathy. When you truly pay attention to someone sharing their thoughts and feelings, it shows you care and helps create a strong bond. It's also important to let them speak without cutting in and to understand their situation with an open mind.