There are many potential explanations for this 😱 but one that has been the subject of some research is that over time if you experience many of the same things together & have high levels of rapport with each other, this matching of emotions can lead to similarities in how the facial features & muscles are sculpted (think frowns / anger / laughter lines) & let’s face it sadly some people spend more time with their boss at work than they do with their immediate family these days.
Tenuous I know – but having worried a good number of you into reading this far, empathetic mimicry (or the ‘Chameleon Effect’) as it is known should be regarded as a superpower. If you are one for whom the ability to mirror comes naturally (e.g. smiling, the tone of your voice, nodding & the crossing of arms & legs) then you are already onto a winner.
Those who do this unconsciously tend to be better communicators, build trust & rapport more quickly & in turn generate higher opinions of themselves & the businesses they work for. The challenge is that we as humans can spot quite easily when people are adopting this approach disingenuously or to exert influence.
So how can you authentically up your ’empathy’ game?
· Become a better & more attentive listener
· Be more curious about other people’s views & experiences
· Build healthy relationships over the long term – not just when you need something!
· Ask questions as opposed to relying on assumptions or biases
The list goes on but if you only got this far out of concern that you may actually start looking like your boss – let me reassure you that it is highly unlikely (unless you are married or long term partners – there is some research on that!).
If you are not prepared to risk it & want to talk about where you might like to take your career next or if you want to help your team develop more empathetic behaviours through team coaching then message me at rupert@strongerhumans.com
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