How to Communicate With Empathy
How to Build Real Connections as a Leader
Now that you’re showing up fully and valuing your voice, it’s time to communicate with empathy. This is the third and final building block in finding your leadership voice.
As a leader, whether at work or at home, you know the power of words. The way you communicate can inspire action, build trust, and strengthen connections. But what happens when the words you speak don’t land the way you intend?
That’s where empathy steps in.
Empathy may not be the flashiest tool in a leader’s toolkit, but it’s one of the most powerful.
When you show empathy, you’re showing people that you genuinely see and understand them and that you care.
Empathy isn’t just about listening—it’s about listening to understand, not to respond. It’s about asking questions that open up conversations and create deeper connections.
If you’ve followed my work for a while, you know my heart is to help others grow in their leadership. I’m still learning myself, and today I want to share a story from early in my career—one that taught me a powerful lesson about empathy.
Make your communication as beautiful as the islands of The Bahamas.
The Struggle: A Lesson from the Bahamas
Years ago, when I was working in the Bahamas, I was just starting out in the corporate world. Back then, I thought leadership meant being direct, truthful, and decisive. If I thought it, I said it—no sugarcoating, no soft edges. To me, being honest was the ultimate sign of integrity.
But as the weeks went by, I noticed something unsettling. Conversations with colleagues felt tense. Team meetings ended with people looking more deflated than inspired. It didn’t take long for a friend to pull me aside and gently say, “You know, you can be truthful without being hurtful.”
That advice hit me hard.
I wasn’t trying to hurt anyone, but I realized that my words—stripped of empathy—were creating distance instead of connection. My version of truth needed a filter, not to dilute it, but to deliver it in a way that others could hear and embrace.
So, I started digging into what it means to communicate with empathy.
Through training, coaching, and a lot of self-reflection, I began to shift my approach. It wasn’t easy, but it was worth it.
The change in how people responded to me was like night and day. And the best part? I became a better leader, one who could inspire and build trust, not just get tasks done.
If you’ve ever felt like your words aren’t landing the way you want—or if you know someone on your team who struggles with this—you’re not alone. And there’s hope.
Here are 3 action steps you can do to communicate with empathy and build real connections in your leadership:
3 Steps to Communicate with Empathy
So, how do you put empathy into action? Here are three practical steps that helped me, and I believe they can help you too.
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1. Ask Open-Ended Questions – Instead of jumping straight to solutions, ask questions like, “How are you feeling about this?” This shows you’re genuinely interested in their perspective.
2. Listen Without Interrupting – Practice letting people finish their thoughts before you respond. It’s a small thing that shows respect and makes others feel heard.
3. Reflect Back On What You Heard – After someone shares, repeat it back in your own words. This not only shows you’re listening but also clears up any misunderstandings.
Your Encouragement to Grow
Communicating with empathy isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being present. It’s about choosing connection over correction, collaboration over control. And the best part? It’s a skill you can learn and improve with practice.
I want to challenge you this week: Try one of these three steps in your next conversation. Start small, maybe with a family member or colleague, and notice how it shifts the dynamic.
And if you’re looking for more guidance, I’ve put together a free resource: The Communication Blind Spots Checklist. It’s packed with strategies to help you identify and overcome common barriers to effective communication. You can grab your copy here.
Closing Thoughts
My journey to communicating with empathy started with a tough lesson, but it’s been one of the most rewarding changes I’ve ever made. And if I can do it, so can you. Whether you’re leading a team, a family, or simply yourself… your words have power.
When you communicate with empathy, you’re not just speaking—you’re connecting. You’re showing people that they matter. And that’s the kind of leadership the world needs more of.
I’m cheering 📣 for you!
Click here:Grab Your FREE Communications Blind Spot Checklist (it’s my gift to you) 🎁