Social awareness

Social awareness is a person's ability to sense the emotions of others and the atmosphere of a setting. It is the foundation of empathy; it is being able to read, alongside what the other person says, what they leave unsaid and what they feel. This skill is decisive in relationships, in leadership, and in moments of conflict; a person lets go of their defense when they feel understood. A person strong in social awareness notices the tension in the room or the meaning beneath a silence. Coaching both develops this skill in the client and is the coach's own fundamental tool.