Empathy as a High-Performance Competency

Abstract

This chapter explores the history, definition, use and importance of Empathy as a High-Performance Competency (H-PC). Empathy is perceived to be a people-related capability that forms part of a Developmental H-PC factor, which operationalises the democratic style of leadership. It is argued that Empathy contributes to leadership effectiveness through multi-dimensional thinking, win-win alliance formation, high-performance team working and the creation of organic organisational structures. It is suggested that four major challenges, including the resolution of humanity’s greatest challenges, require leaders to have Empathy as a strength. Data are presented that indicate Empathy, and other key H-PC, are underdeveloped in modern leaders, which suggests a significant reorientation of leadership development is required.