A manager discovers cognitive empathy, transforming his leadership style. By understanding his team’s perspectives, he shifts focus from metrics to environment, leading to improved engagement and performance.
The story
Rupert was the quintessential manager – all about numbers, deadlines, and operational excellence. But something felt off. His team hit targets, yet seemed disengaged. Meetings lacked energy and creativity.
One morning, scrolling LinkedIn, Rupert stumbled upon a post about Cognitive Empathy – understanding someone’s perspective without necessarily feeling what they feel. Initially skeptical, he realized he had no clue how his team really saw things beyond metrics.
He decided to try something new. In the next meeting, Rupert simply asked, “What’s been on your mind at work – not the projects, but the experience here?”
After an awkward silence, Lila spoke up, “Honestly? It’s hard to stay motivated when everything feels so transactional. We just check off boxes.”
Fighting the urge to defend metrics, Rupert asked, “What would change that for you?”
More voices joined in. Problems surfaced, but so did solutions. Small issues – like meeting structures and impersonal praise – painted a clearer picture of his team’s mindsets.
For the first time in ages, Rupert thought like a leader, not just a manager. His focus shifted from making numbers work to making the environment work. And guess what? The numbers followed.
Want to rewire your leadership approach? Check out “A Practical EmPath: Rewire Your Mind.” It’s a game-changer for understanding cognitive empathy in business.
