Empathy

*This page reviews information from our existing workshops. It does not include all instructional materials and should be used as a resource page throughout the program.

The Primary Traits of empathy

  1. Knows the difference between empathy (putting yourself in someone else’s shoes) versus sympathy (feeling sorry for/understanding what someone is going through) and knows when to use one approach or the other.
  2. Connects with others by being a good listener, asking questions to help understand what the other person is feeling, being honest, and mirroring positive nonverbal communication to build trust.
  3. Develops good relationships with people from different backgrounds and cultures by showing they are respected and valued.
  4. When working with clients or customers, makes decisions based on client or customer needs and points of view, and asks how satisfied they are with the outcome.