Exploring the Value of Mentorship and Building Trust in Mission-Driven Organizations
The Complexity of Leadership
Every individual brings unique experiences, values and emotions to the responsibility of leadership, which includes the profession of leading Soldiers. Effective leaders invest time in understanding Soldiers by tuning into verbal and nonverbal cues and asking thoughtful questions. This leads to a foundation rooted in empathy.
Empathy: A Critical Yet Underused Skill
Despite its importance, in Dr. Chaney’s estimation, empathy remains underemphasized in certain high-stakes professions, particularly within the U.S. Army, whose mission-first culture often discourages emotional connection. Leaders who do attempt to lead empathetically may face pushback from superiors and institutional norms.
Chaney contends that new Soldiers are typically met with rigid, formal leadership because of the Army’s emphasis on discipline and compliance. While necessary in many respects, an atmosphere of detachment can create emotional distance and perpetuate a culture of silence around mental health. With nearly 12% of Soldiers experiencing major depression and many more suffering from chronic health conditions, such detachment is a serious risk to both individuals and mission readiness.
Empathetic leaders play a crucial role in recognizing distress, providing support, and connecting Soldiers with resources they need. Even small gestures—such as listening without judgment—can offer relief and prevent further emotional deterioration.
The Power of Mentorship
Chaney believes that mentorship should not be overlooked in today’s military culture. It actually complements empathy by fostering trust and growth. True mentorship goes beyond a one-way transfer of knowledge; it creates a bilateral relationship where both mentor and mentee engage in honest dialogue. Through this dynamic, mentors can identify early warning signs of mental health issues and guide young leaders in building emotional intelligence and resilience.
In a demanding, high-pressure environment like the U.S. Army, empathy may seem counterintuitive—but it is essential. Empathetic and mentor-driven leadership builds trust, supports mental health, and ultimately enhances unit readiness. To truly care for Soldiers, leaders must not only lead with strength—but also with understanding.
Read "Importance of Mentorship in an Empathetic Leader" on Military Mentors
