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The New CEO Super Power: Empathy

  • #RecruitingAwesome
  • Jul 30
  • 4 min read

Updated: Jul 31

as we move into uncharted territory, CEOs should remember the traits that AI cannot replace—traits that are crucial when framing the need to reduce a workforce. These aren't just headcounts; they are human beings with families, financial responsibilities, and most importantly, feelings.


The New CEO Super Power


The robots are actually taking over, just like Homer predicted in his epic poem The Odyssey—though, unlike Talos, the bronze automaton designed to protect Crete, and its people, today’s "robots" are invisible. We can’t see algorithms or hear them; we can only feel their effects, much like the wind. And honestly, AI is a lot like the wind.


On one hand, it can be informative and pleasant, like when your favorite AI chatbot recommends a movie or book that aligns perfectly with your interests. But, on the other hand, it can also be destructive, like the powerful winds of a hurricane which can displace thousands of people and worse. According to a 2023 report from the World Economic Forum, AI is projected to replace 27% of jobs displacing countless of employees in its wake.


But there’s something that AI won’t be able to do—it won’t be able to evaluate the culture fit of a candidate it sourced for you. It won’t be able to show genuine empathy for the displaced employees who are left wondering what life will look like now.


AI might be one of the best corporate shifts a company can make, thanks to its automation capabilities, low margin of error, and cost-effectiveness. Gone are the days of the "Great Generation" and the "Silent Generation" that worked at auto plants for life. the 30's and beyond when companies felt a moral obligation to offer a living wage and job security to their employees. The Baby Boomers also benefitted from this bennefic corporate mindset.


It is a new technological revolution. Throughout history, we can see that every technological revolution disrupts the status quo. We set up guardrails to protect civilization/humanity and we adapt by learning new skills. As we move into uncharted territory, CEOs should remember the traits that AI cannot replace—traits that are crucial when framing the need to reduce a workforce. These aren't just head counts; they are human beings with families, financial responsibilities, goals, and an emotional life. The latter can drive detrimental posts on Glassdoor, Water Cooler, and TeamBlind.


In these unprecedented times, showing empathy, kindness, and understanding will differentiate you from the algorithms that might eventually take your job too, in the not-so-distant future. Unless you are a Founder holding the majority of the stock like Zuck, you are not immune to AI's death kiss. Empathy is truly the new CEO super power.


5 Ways to Show You Care During Workforce Reductions


  1. Be Transparent and Clear

    • Transparency is key. Employees should be fully informed about the reasons behind the layoffs, the timeline, and what steps are being taken to support them. Clarity reduces confusion and anxiety.


    • Tip: Provide a clear timeline of what happens next, as well as actionable steps that employees can follow.


  2. Use Accessible Communication Channels

    • Never let employees find out they’re losing their job through a mass media outlet. It only compounds the pain. How long does it take to record an empathetic video message or hold a virtual meeting to personally convey the news?


    • Tip: Choose a channel that allows for direct interaction—whether that’s a Zoom meeting, personal emails, or a thoughtful video message.


  3. Offer Meaningful Support

    • Support shouldn’t just be about handing out severance. Provide outplacement services, reskilling opportunities, or coaching to help affected employees transition. This shows that you genuinely care about their future and want to help them regain their footing.


    • Tip: Provide access to career transition programs or resume-building workshops.


  4. Choose Your Words Carefully

    • Words matter, especially when discussing layoffs in public or media contexts. The book of Proverbs 29:11 offers timeless wisdom: “A fool uttereth all his mind: but a wise man keepeth it in till afterwards.” Sometimes, how you say something is just as important as what you say.


    • Tip: Don’t say anything that could make it harder for the laid-off employee to secure new opportunities. Tact, class, and empathy can save the day.


    • Example: Southwest Airlines included a thoughtful message in February 2025, recognizing their employees' contributions and showing deep appreciation before announcing layoffs.


  5. Support Centered Communities 

    • Create affinity groups on platforms like LinkedIn, Reddit or Facebook where laid-off employees can share job opportunities, coping strategies, and emotional support. This builds a sense of community and shows that the company is still invested in their success beyond the job.


    • Tip: You could host virtual meetups or discussion forums to provide ongoing support and job leads.



The Bottom Line: Lead with heart


AI, inflation, labor shortages—these variables among many others are shaping industries, companies, and jobs in ways we’ve never seen before. We’re living in an unprecedented time in history, and as a leader, you’re in the driver’s seat. The normalization of boasting about firing employees is astounding, and incredibly tonedeaf and classless.


Remember, the decision to reduce a workforce isn't just about numbers; it's about real people with real lives and emotions. Showing empathy, kindness, and understanding during these challenging moments is what will ultimately set you apart—and what will help your company build lasting loyalty with the employees who remain.


If you can take care of your people, you’ll have their trust, even when the winds of change are blowing hard. And while AI might be able to replace some roles, it will never be able to replace the human touch. Make the adjustments you need to make to move the organization forward, but don't forget to add empathy-it may just be the new CEO super power.

About Recruiting Awesome. We are a top rated boutique executive search firm with a hyper focus on confidential and tailored search services across industries, and continents. We bring a highly personalized touch to your CEO search, Physician recruitment, and Leadership engagements. We network with seasoned and emerging fresh visionaries. Our leadership searches are never outsourced. You company partners with one key contact that manages every detail of the search for you.


We welcome assisting you on your internal leadership opportunities. Do not hesitate in reaching out here. Some of the greatest breakthroughs happen in times like these. If your organization wants to hire results oriented compassionate diverse leaders then our search firm is for you. If you are a leader passively entertaining new opportunities, feel free connect with us. We would love to hear from you.. Let's start this exciting journey together.



 
 
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