In the world of work, concern that propels us to take responsibility for what needs doing translates into good organizational citizenship.

Psychologist Daniel Goleman, Author of Social Intelligence: The New Science of Human Relationships, knows that empathy, or concern for others, is a manifestation of social intelligence. If your organization has a reputation as being “cut throat,” it does not value empathy. For example, certain organizations use layoffs and cutbacks to increase profit margins, to appeal to the investors best interest. Unfortunately, this comes at the expense of the workforce. The underlying message from leadership suggests that the company values the shareholders over the employees. This is never a good message – ultimately morale is affected and productivity suffers.

Since people do not operate in a vacuum but but take their lead from others, goodwill must come from the top echelons. You must promote empathy as a core value and not just some promotional stunt to foster a better public image when you are a company leader. Leaders who demonstrate integrity in their personal behavior and corporate actions promote goodwill among the rank and file. If you haven’t been clear about you organization’s values, now is the time to make an action plan. First, address past actions, and then slowly make changes. It all starts with you at the top – then the other will get the message and follow your lead.