Do You Exhibit Empathy as a Project Manager?

Following 20 years at a large Canadian telecommunications firm, Bruce established the project management consulting firm Solutions Management Inc (SMI). Since 1999, he has provided contract project/program management services, been a source for project management support personnel and created/delivered courses to over 7,000 participants in Canada, the United States and England.

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Topics: Career Development, Communications Management, Leadership, Stakeholder Management

Empathy is defined as the ability to understand and share the feelings of another person. In the world of business, empathy has heightened importance as it helps business leaders and employees build better relationships with clients, customers and co-workers. When leaders take time to understand and relate to others, they are better able to communicate and collaborate, leading to more successful outcomes.

Empathy is also an important leadership skill. When managers show empathy toward their employees, it can lead to increased job satisfaction and motivation. Employees are more likely to feel valued and supported when their leaders demonstrate understanding and concern for their well-being.

In a broad project management context, empathy is especially important as it allows project managers to better understand the needs and concerns of their team members and stakeholders. This understanding can lead to more effective decision making, as well as a more positive and productive work environment. 

In particular, exercising true empathy during requirements gathering demonstrates an interest in what users need and how they will be impacted by the changes caused by the project—and can lead to a much more cohesive approach.

The fast-paced world of agile brings different challenges.  Empathy can help team members better understand the needs and preferences of …

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