Empathy Over Efficiency: Transforming Leadership to Lift Teams

Stuart Preston
Jan 15
3 min read

Imagine a workplace where leaders don’t wield layoffs and performance reviews like weapons but instead invest in understanding the human beings behind the metrics. A leadership approach rooted in empathy, connection, and care doesn’t just save struggling employees—it strengthens the entire team.

This vision stands in stark contrast to Meta’s “year of efficiency,” where sweeping layoffs and heightened demands created a culture of fear rather than support. But what if, instead of threatening the livelihoods of the bottom 5%, leaders focused on helping them rise?

The Diamonds in the Rough

Every team has its bottom performers. The traditional response might be to replace them, but this approach overlooks an incredible opportunity: untapped potential. The so-called “bottom 5%” often includes individuals who, with the right support, could thrive and exceed expectations. When leaders invest in these individuals, they frequently discover hidden strengths—diamonds in the rough.

A leader who takes the time to ask, “What do you need to succeed?” can spark transformative change. For example:

An underperforming employee might simply need clearer expectations or better tools to excel.
Someone struggling with burnout might benefit from flexible hours or access to mental health resources.
A team member who feels undervalued may perform better with regular recognition and encouragement.

Instead of cutting losses, empathetic leaders find ways to turn potential into performance.

The Ripple Effect of Empathy

When leaders focus on lifting individuals, they don’t just help one employee—they set the entire team up for success. This approach creates a culture where everyone feels valued and supported, fostering trust, collaboration, and resilience.

Here’s how empathetic leadership benefits the whole team:

Stronger connections: Employees who feel seen and heard are more likely to engage and collaborate.
Higher morale: A culture of support reduces fear and fosters positivity, leading to greater satisfaction and loyalty.
Enhanced innovation: When employees feel safe to take risks, creativity flourishes.
Resilience under pressure: Teams that support one another are better equipped to navigate challenges and adapt to change.

Empathy in Action: What Leaders Can Do

Transforming a team starts with simple, intentional actions. Leaders can create an environment where everyone feels empowered to succeed by prioritizing these practices:

Ask questions with care: Instead of assuming the problem, ask: “How can I help you thrive?” or “What’s one thing that would make your work easier?”
Celebrate small wins: Recognize growth and effort, even if someone isn’t at the top of the performance ladder. A little encouragement can go a long way.
Provide tailored support: Offer personalized resources, such as mentorship, skill-building opportunities, or mental health support.
Model vulnerability: Share your own challenges to foster openness and trust. When leaders show they’re human, it creates psychological safety for the team.
Build a team of allies: Encourage teammates to support one another, emphasizing collaboration over competition.

From Survival to Success

Threatening someone’s livelihood may motivate in the short term, but it rarely builds a lasting, high-performing team. I experienced both sides of this equation in the Army. Instead, focusing on connection and support creates a cycle where employees feel empowered to bring their best to work. This isn’t just about improving individual performance—it’s about transforming the team into a cohesive unit.

When leaders invest in empathy, they shift from being taskmasters to champions of potential. And when the whole team rises together, they create a culture of excellence that far outpaces what fear or pressure can achieve.

Discovering the Strength in Vulnerability

The idea of lifting the bottom 5% isn’t only about charity or kindness; it’s a business strategy. Research from the National Safety Council shows that the cost of mental health challenges averages $15,000 per affected employee annually. Addressing these challenges through connection and support saves money and increases productivity, engagement, and retention.

Imagine a workplace where no one is left behind, where every employee has the chance to be their best self. That’s not just a hopeful vision—it’s a roadmap to success.

When leadership takes the time to care about the human behind the job title, the results are profound. Potential is realized. Trust is built. And the team rises, together.