In the world of business, our attention is often focused on sales numbers, growth charts, and bottom lines. Dedicating time to these numbers is not optional. Cash is the blood of your business, and without it, you won’t be around for long. But have you thought about the other essential functions of your business? One of these functions is empathy. As your heart pumps blood to the rest of your body, empathy builds the relationships in your business. Empathy in business is vital and should be viewed as a powerful muscle in your business model.
How does empathy in business play out?
Building Trust
At the most simplified level, every transaction is a relationship between a promise to deliver and an expectation to receive. This is the reason 95% of consumers research reviews prior to visiting a local business; they want to know if they can trust the business. One of the best ways to establish trust is to integrate empathy in business. Empathy makes your client feel important and valued. Rather than simply being a number or name, a client will know you genuinely care and understand their concerns.
Growing Grace
Problems and mistakes are unavoidable in business. The best business owner in the world is still a human being. When issues arise, you will want a good relationship with your client. The stronger the relationship with your client, the more likely they are to overlook problems and forgive mistakes. Empathy is a tool to build your relationships to increase the willingness of your client to absolve issues.
Receiving Referrals
Word of mouth recommendations are the world’s leading advertising. A powerful quote by Maya Angelon says, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” When you employ empathy, clients will remember feeling understood and valued. In a world focused on efficiency and productivity, this can go a long way. Clients will be eager to share this experience with others.
Empathy in business is a powerful tool to build trusting relationships, allow grace for mistakes, and receive future business through referrals.