Compassion is about feeling what others around you, feel. It is sympathetic pity and concern for the sufferings or misfortunes of others. A compassionate leader shows kindness, caring, and a willingness to help others. It is however, not enabling laziness or misbehavior.

A compassionate leader will:

1. Focus on the value of others not on I, me, and mine. S/he ensures that every member of the team knows they are valued and would get credit for their input.
2. Work for a collaborative culture by inviting the whole team to share organization’s vision and goals.
3. Effective leadership finds its source in listening and understanding. Walk around and chat with the people you lead. If virtual, call them up and engage them in conversation.
4. Embody positivity. Don’t tear people down with harsh criticism or constant complaining. Offer hope without sugarcoating reality.

Walk your talk. If you say your company supports work-life balance, then live it out daily. Treat people with compassion. In turn, they will be loyal.