RubyConf 2023 - Keynote by Sharon Steed

Discover the power of empathy in building trust, improving communication, and creating a more inclusive culture in the workplace, and learn how to develop and strengthen this vital skill.

Key takeaways
  • Empathy is essential for building trust, improving communication, and creating a more inclusive culture in the workplace.
  • Practicing empathy requires patience, perspective, and connection, and can be achieved through active listening and asking open-ended questions.
  • Sympathy is a passive emotion, while empathy is a choice that requires effort and understanding.
  • Empathy can increase employee engagement and retention, and reduce turnover and recruitment costs.
  • Companies with a high employee engagement experience 23% are more likely to innovate and solve problems.
  • Vulnerability is key to building trust and creating a more inclusive culture, and requires an environment of safety and open communication.
  • People are more likely to open up and share their experiences when they feel heard and understood.
  • Active listening and asking open-ended questions can help to build connections and create a sense of community.
  • Empathy can help to break down biases and promote understanding and acceptance.
  • Practicing empathy requires self-reflection and a willingness to learn and grow.
  • Companies that prioritize empathy and inclusion are more likely to attract and retain top talent.
  • Empathy is a skill that can be developed and strengthened over time with practice and effort.