Most successful leaders understand that their role goes beyond just driving results. It’s about doing what is right by their teams and supporting the wellbeing of their people. When leaders can prioritise the wellbeing of their teams, the result isn’t just a happier workforce and better results – it’s a stronger, more resilient organisation where everyone thrives.

Many of us naturally show compassion and empathy towards our social circle outside of work. Yet when it comes to leading and collaborating within the workplace, we don’t always extend the same level of compassionate leadership. 

We’re going to share our insight into why compassionate leadership is so important in today’s demanding workplace and how leaders can practice more compassion within their teams.

What is compassion leadership?

Compassionate leadership is one that balances kindness with accountability, fostering understanding, support and empathy for their teams. A compassionate leader will actively listen, offer support, and create a positive, inclusive environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed. 

People BEFORE employees

The key thing to remember is that employees are people first. They are individuals with their own lives, challenges, and aspirations. Before arriving at work, they may have faced difficult family dynamics or personal pressures, and at the end of the day, they return home to those same responsibilities. Recognising their humanity is essential to leading with empathy and understanding.

So how can we achieve this? It’s easier said than done, especially when the pressure is on and there are deadlines to meet. Here are some things you can start to practice…

Active listening

When we focus fully on the person speaking to us without rushing off to the next task on our minds, it helps us fully acknowledge their feelings and make a more considered response. The employee will feel more valued because they know they’re important to you. 

No-one should be discounted because they’re having a bad day, or they don’t feel great about themselves due to poor health. If a member of your team needs to talk about something that’s important to them, it should be important to you too. Give them the time. 

Model self care

Show your team the importance of prioritising wellbeing by taking care of your own. When you’re feeling overwhelmed, openly communicate that you’re stepping away for a short walk or taking time to reset. This demonstrates healthy boundaries and self-awareness and gives others the chance to do the same whenever they feel they need to step away for a short time.

Wellbeing check-ins

Wellbeing check-ins should be part of your weekly catch up/1-to-1s with team members. Ask: “How are you?” with purpose and compassion so the employee can respond in a way that feels comfortable to them, knowing that you are ready to listen. 

Consider training managers on Mental Health First Aid so they know how best to sign post to the right help and support where it might be needed. 

Developing accountability

Create an environment where team members feel safe to take on new responsibilities, even if it feels slightly outside their comfort zone. Being a compassionate leader is about guiding your team and giving them the confidence that you’re there for them when things don’t go to plan. 

It’s also important to have that judgement as to WHEN the time is right to give individuals new challenges. Your team aren’t going to turn up to work with their A-game every day (we’re humans after all!). Exercising that level of judgement with your team encourages growth, but also supports long-term success and development.

Compassionate leadership is about striking a balance between empathy and accountability. It’s recognising the humanity of your team members, supporting their growth while still setting clear expectations and encouraging high performance. 

We know how difficult this can be when you’re already spinning so many plates, but we’re here to offer training and guidance and help you create a culture where people feel valued, motivated, and empowered to achieve their best.