A project manager uses “Street empathy” to address missed deadlines, transforming team dynamics. The approach fosters open communication, leading to practical solutions and stronger relationships.
The story
Lucas stared at the digital clock on his desk, its numbers glowing brighter with each passing minute. His team had been grappling with a series of missed deadlines, and the tension in the room was palpable. As the senior project manager, Lucas knew he had to address the issue head-on.
He glanced at the well-worn copy of “A Practical EmPath” by Scott Howard Swain on his bookshelf. The book had introduced him to “Street empathy” – a conversational use of cognitive empathy that transformed anger and reduced social anxiety. Today, he decided to put it to the test.
Lucas called the team into the conference room. “I’ve noticed we’ve been missing deadlines, and I want to understand why. Let’s talk about what’s been challenging for each of us.”
Samantha, the lead developer, spoke up first. “I’m feeling overwhelmed with the current workload. It’s hard to keep up, and I’m afraid of disappointing the team.”
Lucas responded with empathy, “I can see how that’s stressful, Samantha. It makes sense that you’d feel pressured.” He could feel the tension ease in the room.
One by one, other team members shared their struggles, and Lucas continued to listen, using cognitive empathy as an “organic self-defense” against potential conflict. By the end of the meeting, the team had developed practical solutions and felt a renewed sense of connection.
As they returned to their desks, Lucas realized the power of empathy in business wasn’t just theory. It was a practice that transformed relationships, fostered harmony, and enhanced productivity. Today, they hadn’t just solved a problem; they’d cemented a stronger, more empathetic team.
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