I use “constructive empathy” as a style of active questioning and listening that bridges understanding with goal-oriented action. Constructive empathy is “empathy with purpose.” I will acknowledge a client’s or group’s existing emotional and situational landscapes, and when the client is receptive and ready, I will redirect the conversation toward future solutions and goal achievement. Constructive empathy creates trust and authenticity while maintaining an unbiased and solution-focused perspective.
Incorporating constructive empathy into my coaching, and facilitation services is also crucial to the discovery process and establishing ground truth – an essential aspect for uncovering deeper insights and understanding the underlying issues.
Clients can also receive training on constructive empathy to help them become more effective leaders during challenging situations like an adversarial negotiation, a reduction in workforce (RiF), addressing performance issues with an employee or peer, or any situation that requires “putting yourself in someone else’s shoes.” I offer constructive empathy training as part of executive coaching and team development services.