Inside Out Empathy: Explore the underestimated superpower essential for building, developing, and inspiring a rock-solid team

by Erin Thorp

It's time for a new vision of leadership, one with more heart, more connection, more honesty, and deeper vulnerability. Whether you have been newly promoted to a leadership position or have been in the seat for many years, there is something for everyone in this book. You may have noticed that employing the same skills and tactics you used in your role as a team member now that you're a leader has left you with some major bumps and bruises. You may even fail at leadership. But this book is here to help you succeed as a leader. It will challenge you to learn new skills, dare you to try new approaches, and demand that you open up to vulnerability like you've probably never done. After all, we don't get anywhere new by doing the same old things! A few of the topics explored are:
Move from a "do-er" to a "lead-er." Be flexible, yet strong. Open, yet focused. Care about results and care about people simultaneously. Talk the talk; walk the walk. Mistakes are necessary - fail forward. There is no such things as over-communication!
Reading this book is the first step in your journey to becoming a more effective leader that will touch every aspect of your life.

242 pages, Paperback

Published November 29, 2017

Reviews

[Laur · Rating 4 out of 5]

Unfortunately, my copy of this book had to be returned before I could finish it.
However, I'd have to say that the over half of it that I did get to read was very good. It carries the tools to good leadership and whatever type of job you have, or want to get into, the information in this book is needed.
The title threw me off a bit though. It isn't about empathy as much as its about leadership, especially in corporate senses. Not that empathy isn't apart of good leadership, because it absolutely is, but I don't think its quite fitting to the main message of this book.

What I read of this was very good though, and definitely something most of humanity needs to hear.

[Carol · Rating 3 out of 5]

There are sideliners to my review in that I'm way past retired so to get good ideas how to improve my managerial skills, it's too late. Second, my past experience was managing a $33 million payroll that included seven union contracts so it was complicated but there was no doubt what the goal was - pay everyone accurately to the last penny. And third, I have interacted with the author's mother so it made aspects of the story more interesting to me. My final comment: you go, Erin! Wishing you the best.

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! As a leader of a growing business, I found the tools and tips practical and insightful. I’ve always believed that everything starts from within, so it really resonated when Erin shared how good leadership starts with self-awareness. I also liked her personal stories of leadership in all areas of her life, not just work, and her willingness to be vulnerable so that the reader can better explore their own experiences. Worth the read.

[Lorraine · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The author reflects on empathy, increasing our awareness of its importance, not only in our personal lives but also in the workplace. She shares many personal examples, solid ideas, and good research. There is something for everyone in this book!

[Lina Horner · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book gives great insight into building and working with a team. She focuses primarily on a corporate setting but also offers tidbits and team creation ideas for entrepreneurs like myself. The author offers relatable personal stories and makes it ok to embrace your emotions professionally and even use them as an asset. People, especially women, who are driven and focused often try to compartmentalize their emotions she is trying to remove that tendency.

This book often has parallels to Stephen Covey's 7 Habits but with a twist and woman's perspective.