Understanding Before Judging: A Leadership Lesson That Can Transform Your Team
- hemander linkcvright
- Dec 19, 2025
- 3 min read
Introduction
In the fast-paced world of work, it’s easy to jump to conclusions when an employee’s performance changes. Late arrivals, missed deadlines, or distracted behavior often trigger frustration, but what if there’s more going on behind the scenes?
As a manager or team leader, learning to pause, listen, and understand can not only improve relationships but also create a more compassionate and productive workplace. Here’s a story that illustrates why empathy in leadership is more than just a nice-to-have—it’s essential.
What Happened
I once had an employee who was extremely reliable and hardworking. For months, everything went smoothly. But gradually, I noticed changes. He began arriving late, seemed distracted during work hours, and his productivity dropped.
Naturally, I felt frustrated. I wondered if he was losing interest in the job or slacking off. One day, when he arrived late yet again, I decided to call him into my office to have a serious conversation.
The tension was palpable. He walked in, sensing something was wrong. But before I could voice my concerns, he spoke softly:
“Madam, I’m sorry. My mother is very unwell. She has a rare medical condition, and I take her to the care center every morning for treatment. That’s why I’ve been getting late these days.”
That moment hit me hard. My assumptions had been wrong. My frustration had clouded my judgment.
The Key Message / Lesson
This experience taught me a powerful lesson: sometimes, what looks like negligence or laziness is actually someone silently carrying heavy burdens.
As managers, colleagues, or even friends, it’s easy to focus only on outcomes—timeliness, efficiency, or productivity—without understanding the human context behind them. Yet, taking a moment to listen can completely change the dynamic.
After this conversation, I immediately arranged a remote working option for him until his mother’s treatment was over. The change not only helped him manage his personal responsibilities but also strengthened his commitment and loyalty to the team.
From that day, I made a personal promise to listen first, judge later. That approach has transformed the way I lead and interact with my team.
Actionable Tips for Leaders and Professionals
Here are some practical takeaways you can apply in your career or leadership journey:
Pause Before Reacting – If someone’s performance suddenly changes, take a moment to consider external factors. Immediate assumptions can damage trust.
Create Open Communication Channels – Encourage employees to share challenges. A simple “How can I help?” can make a huge difference.
Offer Flexible Work Options – Remote work, flexible hours, or adjusted workloads can help employees manage personal responsibilities without compromising productivity.
Practice Empathy Daily – Try to understand your team members as whole individuals, not just workers. Empathy fosters loyalty and motivation.
Focus on Solutions, Not Blame – When problems arise, aim to support rather than reprimand. This builds a positive work environment.
Why This Matters for Your Career
Empathy and active listening aren’t just important for managers—they’re valuable skills for anyone navigating a professional environment.
For employees, being transparent about personal challenges can help in negotiating flexible arrangements. For job seekers, highlighting emotional intelligence and collaboration skills in your CV or LinkedIn profile can make you stand out.
When preparing for interviews, consider how you handle conflict, stress, or supporting team members. Employers value professionals who demonstrate compassion alongside competence.
Even small adjustments, like resume tips that showcase problem-solving and teamwork, can reflect your ability to handle real-world challenges gracefully.
Conclusion
The story of my employee reminded me that everyone is fighting battles we may not see. Before judging, take a moment to listen. In doing so, you can build stronger relationships, foster a supportive workplace, and become a more effective leader.
Whether you’re guiding a team, looking for a job, or optimizing your LinkedIn profile, empathy, patience, and communication can create meaningful differences in your career journey.
Remember: true leadership isn’t just about results—it’s about understanding the people behind those results.
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