Empathy as a leadership competence
Empathy is not just a social skill, but an essential competence for modern managers. In autumn 2025, the FHNW School of Business is offering the practical seminar "Leading with Empathy", led by Prof. Peter Gruber. In this seminar, managers learn practical techniques for successful, people-centred leadership.
The construction and property industry and other sectors of the economy are facing increasingly complex challenges. Managers who not only manage functional processes but also take social and ethical aspects into account are more in demand than ever. In the two-day practical seminar at the FHNW, Prof Peter Gruber teaches proven techniques for using empathy in a targeted manner in day-to-day management.
Empathy can be learnt
According to Prof. Gruber, there are two forms of empathy: emotional, intuitive and rational-professional empathy. The latter is crucial for managers in order to understand employees without overburdening themselves emotionally. In management positions in particular, it is essential to consciously develop this skill in order to promote sustainable relationships and a healthy corporate culture.
Leadership versus management: a fundamental difference
While management primarily focuses on figures, data and facts, successful leadership also encompasses psychological, social and ethical dimensions. Gruber emphasises: “The main tool of a manager is the conversation, not the Excel sheet.” Leadership means not only demanding performance, but also recognising and supporting employees as people.
Appreciative leadership as a success factor
Modern leadership is both performance-orientated and people-oriented. Companies that focus on a respectful and meaningful work culture benefit in the long term from motivated employees and a positive working atmosphere. Enjoyment of work increases when employees recognise the meaning of their work, work in a climate of honesty and are encouraged.
A seminar with practical added value
The practical seminar “Leading with empathy” will take place on 17 and 18 September 2025 at the FHNW in Brugg. It is aimed at managers who want to develop their social skills in a targeted manner and implement sustainable, successful leadership.