In this expert session, Anita Nowak, an esteemed empathy researcher and educator based in Montreal, shares her profound insights into the role of empathy in personal growth and organizational success. Anita introduces herself, sharing her background as a teacher and researcher dedicated to empathy for over a decade. Her passion for empathy was ignited after attending a human rights conference where she heard a survivor's moving story from the Rwandan genocide.
The essence of Anita's presentation lies in the significance of empathic leadership and workplaces, emphasizing their impact on communication, productivity, talent acquisition, retention, innovation, and even profit. Studies indicate that employees are more inclined to work longer hours if they feel cared for by their employers, while empathetic leaders who hone listening and understanding skills excel.
Anita then delves into the definition of empathy as a feeling that connects us through our shared humanity, acknowledging the uniqueness of each individual's lived experiences. She explains that empathy encompasses two aspects: affective and cognitive. Affective empathy is the emotional response where we feel what others feel, while cognitive empathy involves understanding another's perspective through our thoughts and imagination.
Through interactive audience activities, Anita demonstrates these concepts and encourages participants to reflect on their own experiences with empathy. Her engaging presentation leaves a lasting impact as she continues her expert session by discussing the capacity for cognitive empathy in humans and its importance in leadership today. She shares practical exercises and stories of personal transformation, emphasizing the potential for growth and connection through empathic practice.
Anita also highlights the benefits of empathy on both personal and organizational levels and encourages purposeful empathy to improve society and enhance living conditions for more people. Throughout her presentation, she utilizes the Mentimeter app for audience engagement and participation.
As Anita concludes her session, she shares insights on empathy in various contexts, from personal relationships to business environments. She offers practical strategies for developing empathy skills and fostering a more empathetic workplace culture. By promoting active listening, self-awareness, and compassionate communication, she aims to help individuals and organizations create stronger connections and build thriving communities.
