Did you know that if we are experiencing ‘companionate love’ from our peers and managers, we will tend to perform better compared to when there is an absence of warmth, affection, and connection in the workplace? Research shows that when the management cultivates and demonstrates companionate love (and this is not a typo: companionate love, rather than compassionate, means relating harmoniously, in the manner of companions), employees, teams and clients are all positioned for successful outcomes.
Studies on the topic of leading by example with companionate love can be dense, and point to more of an art than a science of measuring the success factors. However, a relationship is clear: when leaders lead by example exhibiting greater empathy, adaptability and diversity, their teams thrive. Female CEOs illustrate these characteristics more frequently than their male peers (per a survey of nearly 8,500 companies across 61 countries).
What does this look like specifically? Leaders who lead by example listen to the team, demonstrate the behaviors they say they want to see in their employees, and follow through on promises. CFI’s article Leading by Example offers a nice variety of concrete examples. Result? Increased trust, improved communication, enhanced morale, employee retention.
Like it or not, you are always leading by example. Take a moment and see if you can get clear on your own contributions. What do you do, or not do, that influences your workplace environment?
Small moments of companionate love, such as a warm smile or a kind note between you and your colleague can create a big ripple effect in fostering a strong and harmonized workplace culture.
We have a beautiful, inspiring image on the CB website that says “Love is the strongest, bravest force, even in business.” Enjoy it on our About page!