The Impact of Compassionate Leaders

Cathie Leimbach • May 31, 2023

When employees feel cared for at work, they talk more positively about their employer.

Gallup, a well-known research company, has studied how compassion helps leaders be more effective. Their research shows that leaders who show compassion have a positive impact on their organization and the well-being of their employees.

Gallup found that compassionate leaders create an environment where employees feel valued and supported. They listen carefully to their team members, give helpful feedback, and offer assistance when needed. This kind of leader builds trust and improves communication.

Compassionate leaders are also good at handling difficult situations and conflicts. They understand and care about their employees' feelings, which makes them feel safe to share their ideas and concerns. This openness leads to more collaboration and problem-solving.

Gallup's research proves that compassion in leadership has real benefits. Companies with compassionate leaders have happier employees, lower turnover, and higher productivity. By being understanding and empathetic, leaders can create a positive work culture where people can grow both personally and professionally.


Leaders Who Help People Thrive

By Cathie Leimbach • July 28, 2026
From uncertainty to confident, supportive leadership conversations

The Workplace Has Changed. Has Your Leadership?

By Cathie Leimbach • July 21, 2026
There was a time when many employees expected to spend most of their careers with one organization. Job security, pensions, and long-term loyalty often kept people in the same company for decades. Today's workforce thinks differently. Millennials and Gen Z expect to build careers—not necessarily with one employer. If they don't see opportunities to learn, grow, contribute, and advance, they'll find them somewhere else. Research consistently shows that younger employees are looking for more than a paycheck. They want managers they trust, meaningful work, opportunities to develop, flexibility when possible, and a workplace where they feel respected, supported, and heard. Gallup reports that 87% of Millennials say professional development is important to their job satisfaction. Combined with growing expectations for work-life balance and a positive workplace culture, it's no surprise that organizations relying primarily on compensation to retain employees continue to struggle with turnover. The encouraging news is that leaders influence most of what keeps people engaged.  Managers who hold meaningful conversations, clarify expectations, recognize contributions, coach for growth, and genuinely care about their employees create workplaces where people want to stay. They build trust, strengthen engagement, and help employees grow, succeed, and see a future with the organization. Today's retention isn't driven by job security or loyalty alone. It's driven by a workplace experience where employees are growing, supported by leaders they trust, and confident their contributions matter. Download our Retention Conversation Guide to discover practical ways to strengthen trust, engagement, and retention—one leadership conversation at a time. Conversation is where leadership happens.