FROM THE DESK OF THERESE

Empathy is critical

Impact HR Director Therese Ravell shares her reflections on topics to impart some advice that may be important, relevant and helpful to the business community.

I’m not going to gloss over the obvious and tell people we “just” need to stay positive. Being a business leader in the current climate is tough and some of our clients have very real concerns about the economic viability of their business. For some the weight of the world is on their shoulders as they make personal sacrifices to keep the business afloat.

Putting your own metaphorical oxygen mask on first is so important at this point. Reaching out for support for yourself and/or taking the time needed to ensure your own wellbeing needs are met, will help you have the capacity to meet the needs of your team.

Because like it or not, they may be struggling too. I know the weight they carry is not the same as yours. Nobody’s journey is going to be exactly the same as yours. Your team will have their own pressures, whether that’s home schooling, a partner who has lost a job, being isolated and in lockdown alone or the mental toll of ongoing bad news.

This makes empathy critical. While you as the business owner, may have big goals for your business, you can’t do it alone. You need them as much as they need you. If you tend to the welfare of yourself first, and then your team, you will create psychologically safe work environment filled with people who will go above and beyond their roles and help you achieve your business goals.