Empathy
Why does empathy matter?
Builds trust quickly and deeply.
How can a student feel if we lead a conversation with sympathy?
Pity and helplessness
How do you show empathy?
It is not what you feel but what you do. Listen to what they say and ask questions to have them open up more.
“That sounds really tough. I feel so bad for you. I do not know how you do it.”
“That sounds really challenging. What has helped you keep going through all of that?”
How can we make a student feel seen and heard?
Active listening to hear what truly matters.
How can empathy help an AO?
How can sympathy lead the relationship with the AO and student?
How can you help a student open up?
Mirror their tone and language and find common ground
"It sounds like you've been holding a lot. Who is helping you through that?"
"It sounds like you've been holding a lot. You don't have to do this alone - let's break it down together."
Is this Empathy or Sympathy: "That's a lot to carry- thank you for sharing it with me. Let's figure out how we can move forward."
Empathy
What is Empathy?
Ability to understand, share, and experience the feelings and perspectives of another person.
What is Sympathy?
Act of recognizing another person's pain and offering compassion.
How does empathy help prevent burnout?
It allows you to emotionally support students without absorbing their stress.
"You're not the only one who feels this way. This part is hard for everyone."
"You're not the only one who feels this way. Let's talk through it together so it feels more doable."
How can you protect the rapport you built with empathy during a tough conversation?
Being patient and staying grounded.
With Empathy what outcomes will happen when a student is feeling understood and supported?
Staying engaged and taking the next step.
As an AO if we lead with Sympathy what will our tone or vibe sound in the conversation?
What is the main goal of mirroring an empathetic coversation?
Creating emotional alignment and helping the student feel understood.
"How are you holding up with all of this?"
"What has helped you through this difficult time?"
Why do we ask emotionally aware questions?
To understand what's behind the student's concerns or hesitations.
What are the 3 A's of Empathy?
Awareness, Agenda, Action
Why does Sympathy feel easier to use in a conversation sometimes?
You can show basic human care for people you may not know personally.
What is a core part of having an empathetic coversation?
All the student to express themselves without interruption.
"How can I better understand what you're going through?"
"Thank you for sharing that with me. Let's break this down so we can tackle each of your concerns one at a time."
Finish this: "Empathy fuels connection. Sympathy drives..."
"Sympathy drives disconnection." - Dr. Brene Brown