This post is written by Toby Newstead, Alex Newman, Saeed Loghman, and Ron Riggio.<\/p>\n
We live in a time of division, dissension, and conflict. Many countries in the world are led by tyrants who use coercion and punishment<\/a> to rule their people. In addition, many powerful leaders in business seem to be callous when it comes to the welfare of their employees. Good leadership<\/a> is not just about being effective, but also requires concern for the welfare and well-being of followers. Critical to this is the virtue of humanity.<\/p>\n In a recent publication, our team of scholars reviewed the research on the impact of leader virtues, specifically, the possession of empathy, compassion, kindness, generosity<\/a>, love and forgiveness<\/a> \u2013 what we collectively call the \u201cvirtue of humanity.\u201d These important human qualities are prominent in most ancient philosophies, from Aristotle and the ancient Greeks to indigenous traditions.<\/p>\n How are these virtues linked to good leadership?<\/p>\n Empathy helps a leader understand what followers are feeling and experiencing. What did we find?<\/p>\n Although the research on the virtue of humanity and the components of it is relatively scarce, the results are clear. For example, leader empathy builds follower trust. Compassionate leaders have more engaged and longer tenured employees. Leader forgiveness can help support organizational performance, as employees are more willing to be innovative and take risks.<\/p>\n What are the practical implications?<\/p>\n In selecting and promoting leaders, it is important to look for leaders who possess humanity.<\/p>\n Leadership development programs should incorporate attention<\/a> to leader virtues, including the virtue of humanity.<\/p>\n Evaluation of leaders\u2019 performance should include the leader\u2019s virtuous qualities.<\/p>\n In developing organizational cultures, practicing these virtues of humanity will lead to a more positive and supportive culture for everyone. That being said, the virtue of humanity is just as important for followers to possess as leaders. Virtues are related to good character, and good leaders (and followers\/team members) need to possess the virtue of humanity.<\/p>\n Why does leader humanity matter more now?<\/p>\n With employee engagement at low levels, \u201cquiet quitting,\u201d and many citizens and employees in financial distress, it is important that leaders at all levels, in politics<\/a>, business, and in supportive roles, practice the virtues of humanity \u2013 showing empathy, compassion, and care for those they lead.<\/p>\n
\nCompassion works to foster well-being in those who are led and causes the leader to strive to alleviate their suffering.
\nForgiveness is important in allowing followers to make amends and helps strengthen leader-follower relationships.
\nLove is the leader caring for others\u2019 well-being and personal growth.
\nKindness is being considerate of others.
\nGenerosity is a leader\u2019s unselfishness that allows the leader to support followers and tend to their needs and wants.<\/p>\n