Empathy is often seen as the latest trend in leadership development. This observation is based on the results of a survey I recently conducted among executives in the Netherlands, where empathy emerged as a top leadership quality.

Interestingly, however, the extensive hard data collected by Essentive suggests that it is not empathy, but dominance, that forms the true foundation of effective leadership.

Dominance is often interpreted negatively, but it is undeniably the essence of leadership. It embodies the drive for influence, impact, and the ability to achieve goals. Without a degree of dominance, leadership is simply impossible.

In contrast, leadership without empathy but with dominance is indeed possible. Although this may not be the ideal image we desire in our daily lives, it has its value in certain situations, especially during crises. The survey results offer reason for optimism: assuming that most leaders naturally possess sufficient dominance, empathy becomes a crucial complementary quality for a ‘people manager’. The ability to empathise with others can have a positive influence and much more.

For those of us who feel less dominant: don’t worry. There are numerous other paths and opportunities that align with your unique talents and capacities.