Understanding the difference between sympathy and empathy

Empathy and sympathy are two terms that are often used interchangeably. But only one of them allows people to connect deeper than surface level. Which should you practice? Let’s explore how empathy and sympathy differ and why one is a better tool to help you connect with others at work and in life.

Repeat in your own words

Do not just repeat what someone has said, but make sure you are echoing what they have said.

Difference between empathy and sympathy

Pathos can mean “emotion” or “feelings”

Compassion vs. empathy

Compassion and empathy are often used interchangeably

They both come with a desire and ability to connect with someone else and feel their pain
To effectively help someone else, you should be able to manage those empathetic feelings so that they don’t overwhelm you

A friend who needs emotional support

Empathy instead requires you to put your own feelings aside and focus on the other person.

Only by listening, you’ll find out what they’re looking for
Instead, redirect the conversation to be about you, and try to find what makes them feel comfortable.

Empathy vs sympathy examples

Imagine someone in your place of work was just reprimanded. If you were to express sympathy, you could tell them that you’re sorry that they’re going through this.

With empathy, you feel the sadness, nervousness, and disappointment the other person feels. You care about their well-being.

4 ways to practice empathy

70% of CEOs struggle to demonstrate empathy at work consistently

68% of them also believe they’ll be less respected if they show empathy in the workplace
Only 25% of employees say that empathy in their organizations is sufficient
90% of Gen Z employees are more likely to stay at their jobs if their employer is empathetic

Empathy vs sympathy: key characteristics

Understanding the differences between empathy and sympathy can help you choose the most appropriate one given your circumstances

While empathy supports a deeper connection, there are times when a sympathetic response is more fitting
Here is an overview of both types of empathy and how they differ

Empathy vs sympathy: know the difference

Sympathy is an expected sentiment. But empathy goes beyond what people expect

What is sympathy?

Having thoughts about what someone feels

When in conversation, giving unasked advice
Passing judgment
Ignoring or suppressing your own emotions
Sympathy can also lead someone to give unsolicited advice to help the other person deal with their emotions

Prioritize emotional intelligence

Emotional intelligence is an important soft skill to practice in your workplace if you want to improve empathy.

Understand what the other person needs

Use your listening skills to figure out what they need.

Listen actively instead of focusing on what to say next

Pay close attention to what someone is telling you. Listen attentively, not just for their words, but for other non-verbal cues.

When the other person is finished speaking, take a moment to process the information. Only once you’ve processed all nuances of the conversation should you focus on what you want to say.

Which is better: sympathy or empathy?

Sympathy doesn’t help you build deep connections with other people

Someone in grief

Showing empathy requires a lot more than offering your condolences. It also takes effort to be there for them and offer them the support they need.

Imagine yourself in the grieving person’s shoes and try to imagine yourself putting yourself in their shoes.

A coworker struggling to keep up

While you did help them, you didn’t take the time to connect with how they felt.

By listening fully to what they have to say, you help them feel heard and supported. As a result, this coworker is now better able to focus afterward.