Social Awareness: Noticing and Uplifting Others
Photo credit to Misha Safran, Canva, & Midjourney, Logo credit to Misha Safran & Christi Williford
Are You Paying Attention to What (and Who) Is Unseen?
Are you paying attention to what (and who) is unseen? In this week’s edition of The Compassionate Leader, we will explore how social awareness can shift everything—from how you lead meetings to how you build true belonging. Don’t miss these powerful tips for tuning in and lifting others up. It's a gift more than you perhaps have realized - not just for others but for you!
Inclusion thrives not just on good intentions but on attuned attention. Social awareness is the emotional intelligence skill that invites us to truly notice others—not just their words, but their silences, their hesitations, their brilliance and their wit waiting quietly to be seen.
When we practice social awareness, we tune into what people need in order to feel seen, heard, valued, and understood. We start to notice who’s not speaking up, who isn’t being acknowledged, or who’s carrying emotional weight without saying a word. These “micro”-observations—when met with care—can become moments of transformation and belonging. And, while they may be referred to as “micro”, they may be the exact action needed to change the trajectory of someones life and/or that of your organization.
Even the smallest gesture of affirmation can counter years of invisibility. That’s the power of social awareness in action.
💜 Quick Tips (and Why They Matter) 💜
Do a quick “inclusion scan” in your next meeting: Who hasn’t spoken? Who was interrupted? This awareness gives you the opportunity to invite voices in and redistribute airtime with intention.
Use "micro"-affirmations—small, sincere acknowledgments like “I appreciate your insight” or “You brought a new perspective.” These build trust, validate identity, and counter "micro"-aggressions.
Recognize nonverbal cues: Is someone fidgeting, looking down, or unusually quiet? Social awareness isn’t about fixing—it’s about making space. Ask gently, “Is there something you need right now?” or simply hold space with presence. Even a simple head nod can show a person you see and care about them. Whatever you do, don't call someone out, especially in front of a large group, without connecting with them to find out if that would be helpful as sometimes it could do more harm. Be discerning.
💭 Reflection Questions
Who in my space might feel overlooked, even unintentionally?
How can I use my awareness to create more equity in everyday interactions?
With empathy and joy,
Misha Safran
PS: Ready to build a workplace where everyone feels seen, heard, and uplifted? Let’s connect—I bring keynotes and trainings that turn emotional intelligence into meaningful, inclusive leadership. Let's Connect!
PPS: Want your leaders to navigate tough conversations with more clarity, compassion, and care? I’d love to support your team in building emotionally intelligent practices that transform culture. Another Reason to Connect!
PPPS: Need to change the dynamics of staff meetings, try CEEQ’s ConnectionCatalyst™ Conversation Card Decks! We have three decks: Judgment, Empathy, and Joy & Play to support deeper thinking and improved staff cohesion!
Land Acknowledgement: Born on the land of the Anacostans, Piscataway, and Pamunkey peoples. Currently living on Karkin Ohlone land.
All are valued in my practice: BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, humans of all backgrounds and ages. Through sharing my pronouns, I hope to support a safer and braver space for all professionals to share their pronouns.
