Leadership isn’t just about strategy, vision, or achieving goals. At its core, effective leadership is about people. The best leaders I’ve worked with and learned from were the ones who understood this fundamental truth: people want to feel heard, valued, and supported. That’s where empathy comes in.

Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. It’s about putting yourself in someone else’s shoes, seeing the world from their perspective, and responding with care and intention. In my role as Controller and CFO at JSL Construction, I’ve seen how empathy has the power to transform teams and drive success in ways that no strategy or process ever could. Here’s what I’ve learned about the human side of leadership and why empathy is one of the most powerful tools a leader can have.

Why Empathy Matters in Leadership

In today’s fast-paced and ever-changing workplace, empathy is often overlooked in favor of results-oriented leadership. But the truth is, empathy and results go hand in hand. When people feel understood and supported, they’re more engaged, motivated, and productive. A culture of empathy creates trust, fosters collaboration, and builds resilience, all of which are essential for team success.

Empathy matters because it reminds us that work isn’t just about tasks and deadlines—it’s about people. Every team member has their own challenges, strengths, and aspirations. As leaders, it’s our responsibility to meet them where they are and create an environment where they can thrive.

Listening: The First Step Toward Empathy

Empathy starts with listening—really listening. Too often, leaders are quick to jump to solutions or dismiss concerns without taking the time to fully understand the situation. Active listening requires patience, curiosity, and a willingness to put aside your own assumptions.

When a team member comes to me with a concern or an idea, I make it a point to give them my full attention. I listen not just to their words but also to their tone and body language. Are they frustrated? Excited? Unsure? Understanding the emotions behind the words helps me respond in a way that’s both supportive and constructive.

Active listening isn’t just about hearing what someone says—it’s about showing them that their voice matters. When people feel heard, they’re more likely to share their thoughts openly, which leads to better communication and stronger teamwork.

Building Trust Through Empathy

Trust is the foundation of any successful team, and empathy is one of the fastest ways to build it. When leaders demonstrate empathy, they show their team that they care about more than just the bottom line—they care about the people who make it all happen.

I’ve found that trust grows when leaders are willing to be vulnerable. Sharing your own challenges or admitting when you don’t have all the answers creates a sense of connection and relatability. It’s a reminder that leaders are human too, and that vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness.

At JSL Construction, I’ve made it a priority to create an environment where trust is the norm. This means being honest, transparent, and approachable. Whether it’s acknowledging a mistake or showing understanding during a team member’s tough time, these small acts of empathy build trust that carries the team through challenges and successes alike.

Empathy in Action: Supporting Your Team

Empathy isn’t just a mindset—it’s an action. It’s about showing up for your team in meaningful ways, especially when they need it most. This could be as simple as checking in with someone who seems overwhelmed or as significant as offering flexibility during a personal crisis.

One example that stands out to me was when a team member at JSL Construction was dealing with a family emergency. Rather than focusing on their workload, I prioritized finding ways to support them. We adjusted their responsibilities, ensured they had the time they needed, and regularly checked in to see how they were doing. The result? Not only did they feel cared for, but the rest of the team stepped up to support them, creating a stronger bond across the organization.

Empathy in action shows your team that you’re not just a leader—you’re an ally. It’s about recognizing their humanity and making space for their needs, which, in turn, inspires loyalty and dedication.

Balancing Empathy with Accountability

One misconception about empathy is that it’s at odds with accountability. Some people worry that being empathetic means letting people off the hook or lowering standards. But in reality, empathy and accountability go hand in hand.

Empathy helps you understand the challenges your team is facing, which allows you to set realistic expectations and provide the right support. It’s about finding solutions, not excuses. When you approach accountability with empathy, it becomes less about blame and more about collaboration. You’re working with your team to find a path forward, rather than simply pointing out what went wrong.

For me, the key is to lead with empathy but always keep the mission in mind. By balancing compassion with clarity, you can hold people accountable while still showing that you care.

The Ripple Effect of Empathy

One of the most rewarding aspects of leading with empathy is seeing the ripple effect it creates. When you model empathy as a leader, it inspires others to do the same. Team members start to support one another, communicate more openly, and approach challenges with greater understanding.

This culture of empathy doesn’t just benefit the team—it elevates the entire organization. It leads to stronger relationships, better problem-solving, and a workplace where people feel valued and motivated to do their best work.

Final Thoughts: Leading with Heart

Leadership isn’t just about driving results—it’s about leading with heart. Empathy is the bridge that connects leaders to their teams, creating an environment where trust, collaboration, and growth can flourish. It’s about recognizing that behind every task is a person with their own story, and taking the time to understand and support them.

For me, empathy has been one of the most powerful tools in my leadership journey. It’s taught me that the human side of leadership isn’t a distraction—it’s the foundation. When you lead with empathy, you’re not just building a successful team—you’re creating a lasting impact that goes far beyond the workplace.

So, the next time you’re faced with a leadership challenge, ask yourself: How can I lead with empathy? You might be surprised at the difference it makes—not just for your team, but for you as a leader.