Empathetic Leadership in Corporate Communication: Cultivating Positive Dynamics and Enhancing Employee Well-Being

This study aims to examine the impact of empathetic leadership in corporate communication, focusing on its role in enhancing employee well-being and fostering a positive workplace culture. It explores how empathetic communication contributes to trust, engagement, and long-term organizational success. Based on an international survey conducted among communication professionals in Canada and the United States (n = 1055), our analyses revealed significant gender disparities in the perception of empathy among senior communication leaders, with male professionals reporting higher perceived empathy compared to female professionals. Additionally, hierarchical position influenced perceptions, with higher-ranking employees reporting stronger empathic leadership. Perceptions of increased empathic communication over the past year were notably higher among men, older employees, and those with more experience. Empathetic leadership demonstrated a strong positive correlation with employee engagement and organizational commitment but did not significantly impact burnout. Findings from this study contribute to a broader understanding of how leadership empathy varies across professional environments and demographic groups, underscoring the complex dynamics of gender and organizational structure in shaping workplace experiences. Findings in our study contribute to both the advancement of leadership theory and the improvement of corporate communication practice.