By Rosy S. Santos

Empathy took center stage during the LEAD Talks last June 26, 2025, where nineteen NLEX leaders gathered at FYM Seafood Restaurant, Valenzuela City, to discuss the LEADS leadership brand with the theme: “Empathize by Listening to the Team.”

Steered by the LEAD Speaker Robin Ignacio, Assistant Vice President for Traffic Operations Support Services, the session underscored how empathetic listening is a vital skill for leaders who aim to build trust and connection within their teams. He emphasized that leadership is not just about directing—it is about truly understanding the people you lead.

Sir Robin shared that empathetic listening matters because it:

• Improves Communication: helps team members feel heard and valued.
• Builds Trust: when people feel safe to express themselves and be understood, trust follows naturally.
• Enhances Collaboration: listening carefully leads to more thoughtful discussions and solutions.

He also shared practices to foster empathetic listening:

• Being Present: giving full attention in conversations, without distractions, shows respect and care.
• Mindful Listening: focusing not just on words, but also on tone, emotions, and what’s left unsaid.
• Body Language: using eye contact, facial expressions, and posture to show empathy and openness.

These practices help leaders create a safe space, where team members feel seen, heard, and valued.

Below are selected slides that capture the essence of the session:

This LEAD Talks session reaffirmed that listening with empathy is not only a communication skill—it’s a leadership mindset. When leaders are present, mindful, and emotionally attuned, they inspire trust, connection, and lasting impact.

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