Whether you’re leading a project, relying on someone else’s work, or simply collaborating with your team, deadlines are part of the deal. But let’s get real: setting a deadline won’t automatically get you results.
You can’t just punch in a date, twist a few knobs, and expect people to deliver like machines.
Here’s the kicker: deadlines are necessary, but they won’t work without empathy.
Empathy isn’t about feelings and being “soft.” Empathy in performance coaching means making sure the conditions are right for success. You’re a stakeholder in someone’s work, so it’s your responsibility to ensure they have everything they need to meet those deadlines.
4 Steps Leveraging Empathy for Performance
I came across this game-changing model years ago in a product development book—sadly, I’ve forgotten the title. The author introduced the ERAM—Expectations, Resources, Ability, and Motivation (internal) for boosting performance with empathy —and it’s stuck with me ever since.
- 📆 Set Expectations With Flexibility
You need clear, non-negotiable deadlines for certain things, but make sure to include buffer time where you can. If you’re depending on someone else’s work, don’t just focus on the due date—discuss any wiggle room and stay flexible where it’s possible. Flexibility within guardrails leads to more creativity and success. - 🛠 Provide the Right Resources
Deadlines without resources are a recipe for failure. Whether it’s access to software, support from colleagues, or simply more time, check if the person has what they need. If delays happen, it’s often because there’s something missing—not a lack of effort. - ⚙️ Assess Ability, Not Just Effort
If someone’s struggling to meet a deadline, ask: do they have the skills required? Not everyone will tell you upfront if they’re in over their head. Be proactive and offer support, training, or task redistribution. The issue is often ability, not willingness. - 🔥 Tap Into Motivation (internal)
Motivation can’t be forced. Ask the person responsible: why does this work matter to them? When people see how their contributions fit into the bigger picture, they’re more likely to be driven. Motivation from within is always stronger than external pressure.
Deadlines don’t deliver results—people do. And you don’t want to be that person who treats others like they’re machines, just pushing deadlines, because remember:
Anyone can set a deadline. It takes empathy to make sure it’s met.
