The Role of Empathy and Kindness in Mitigating Workplace Psychological Strain
Conflicts at the workplace are inevitable because every employee has different personality traits, goals, expectations, and perspectives. However, every conflict doesn't need to be ugly. When dealt in the right way, conflict can pave the way for new learning, growth, and innovation. The only criterion is that the conflict must be dealt with compassion and empathy.
In this article, we will see how empathy can be imbibed in the workplace and how HR can mitigate workplace psychological strain with empathy.
Practicing empathy and kindness at the workplace
Here are a few ways to practice empathy and kindness in the workplace.
Practice active listening
Active listening is one of the most important skills for managers to use to understand how employees are feeling. HR leaders must practice listening skills and train managers and supervisors to be active listeners.
Managers must listen to what their team members say and ask open-ended questions to understand the gravity of the conflict. They must avoid interruptions and judgments while listening to any conflict and reflect upon it later to come to a conclusion without bias or judgment.
Show a lot of empathy
Empathy has a powerful effect on resolving conflict and mitigating psychological strain. Managers must learn to express empathy with their words and actions to show they care and convey their concerns. When done right, empathy can help build rapport, instill confidence, and gain the trust of employees. Here are a few ways to express empathy…
"I am sorry you had to go through this."
"I really appreciate your efforts."
"Is there anything I can do for you?"
Remember, you do not need to go out of your way to show empathy. Simple words and genuine concern can sometimes help mitigate many workplace psychological strains.
Offer resolutions
Compassion is not just about feeling about others but also about offering help. In the workplace, when managers notice any of their team members are going through psychological strain due to a conflict, they can offer help to resolve the conflict. Offering resolutions is also an act of showing empathy. It translates that you are concerned and want to collaborate and contribute to helping the employee navigate the challenge with a positive outcome. Here are a few ways managers can try offering resolutions through empathy.
"How about we divide the tasks so that we don't miss the deadline, yet no one is burnt out?"
"Can we try this approach?"
"Can we agree on this?"
Remember, offering a resolution is not just an act of empathy; it also helps to reach a conclusion, complete the task at hand, and minimize the negative impact of psychological strains.
Understand emotions
Emotions are innate to human beings and spark during every conversation. When there is any conflict, we all experience a sharp spike in emotions. Ignoring or suppressing the emotion can create more frustration and resentment. Understanding and acknowledging the emotions can help navigate the conflict, create a safe place for dialogue, and come to a solution.
How HRs can build an empathetic workplace culture
HR plays a crucial role in building an empathetic work culture. Few areas to focus on:
Focusing on empathetic communication
HR can focus on building an empathetic communication culture within the organization. They can conduct seminars and workshops to encourage empathetic communication, build emotional intelligence, and provide employees and managers with tools to empower them to navigate and negotiate complex workplace situations.
Conflict resolutions courses
HR can also organize conflict resolution courses that make employees aware of empathy, which can impact an organization. Such initiatives not only empower employees to mitigate psychological strains but also help the organization achieve its goals. Further, they uphold the organization's brand value as a preferred workplace.
Gather regular feedback
HR must conduct surveys and gather feedback regularly to ensure all communication channels work well and employees are happy at their workplaces. In addition to conducting anonymous surveys, HR may also consider having an open-door policy where employees can freely raise their concerns.
Key takeaway
Remember, compassion and empathy are not just soft skills but powerful tools that can mitigate workplace conflicts, minimize psychological strains, build trust, positively impact performance, improve customer satisfaction, and help organizations achieve their overall goals. Effective communication, teamwork, and open communication are the key factors that can help drive a positive and empathetic work culture.
FAQ
How can active listening help in managing workplace conflicts?
Active listening allows managers to fully understand their employees' perspectives and feelings, which is crucial during conflicts. By asking open-ended questions, avoiding interruptions, and reflecting on what is said, managers can address issues more effectively and empathetically, leading to better resolutions and reduced psychological strain.
What are some practical ways to show empathy in the workplace?
Empathy involves expressing genuine concern and support through simple, sincere statements like "I am sorry you had to go through this" or "Is there anything I can do for you?" These small gestures help build trust and rapport, making resolving conflicts easier and reducing workplace stress.
