Empathy as a Performance Driver

allynitschke
2 days ago
2 min read

Here’s a truth some leaders still resist: empathy isn’t a soft skill, it’s a performance driver.

For too long, empathy has been framed as “being nice.” Something optional. Something fluffy. But the evidence is clear: leaders who show genuine care don’t just create happier workplaces, they create higher-performing ones.

Why Empathy Fuels Performance

When people feel valued and understood, they bring more of themselves to work. They take risks, they share ideas, they go the extra mile. Empathy creates psychological safety, and psychological safety is the bedrock of innovation and accountability.

Google’s Project Aristotle famously found that the highest-performing teams weren’t the ones with the smartest individuals, they were the ones with the highest levels of psychological safety. Empathy was the glue.

The Misconception About Empathy

Some leaders worry empathy will make them “soft.” That holding people accountable while being empathetic is contradictory. But empathy doesn’t mean lowering standards. It means understanding context while still expecting performance.

Think of it like this: empathy says, “I see you, I hear you, and I still believe in your ability to deliver.” That belief is powerful fuel.

Practical Ways to Lead with Empathy

Listen actively. In high-pressure moments, take time to genuinely hear concerns.
Acknowledge challenges. Simply recognising stress builds trust.
Tailor support. Empathy isn’t one-size-fits-all, different people need different kinds of encouragement.
Pair care with clarity. Empathy without clear expectations drifts. The magic is in combining both.

A Story of Empathy Driving Performance

A director I worked with led a team through an intense product launch. Deadlines were tight, and stress was high. Instead of just pushing harder, she scheduled 15-minute one-on-one check-ins each week. She asked not just about progress, but about energy. Staff said they felt seen, supported, and motivated to push through. The product launched on time, and with one of the highest engagement scores in the company’s history.

Final Thought

Empathy isn’t about being soft. It’s about being human, and using that humanity to drive results.

In 2026, the leaders who thrive will be those who see empathy not as an optional extra, but as a competitive advantage.

Because when empathy fuels performance, everyone wins: the people, the culture, and the business.

If you would like to book in a time to speak with Ally: CLICK HERE.

Ally Nitschke is a best-selling Author, an award-winning Thought Leader and Speaker. She has been working with leaders and as a Leader for over 20 years.

She is on a mission to change the way we communicate at work, to lean into those uncomfortable conversations and lead with courage.

Ally is a Keynote Speaker at conferences, delivers Transformational Programs & highly engaging workshops as well as provides Executive Coaching.