Empathy: The Highest Form of Knowledge

“The highest form of knowledge is empathy, for it requires us to suspend our egos and live in another’s world.” -Plato

Emergency telecommunicators handle calls for service ranging from barking dogs and noise complaints to assaults, structure fires, and medical emergencies. It is a virtuous superpower to consistently show compassion and empathy for the concerns and emergencies of those seeking assistance, regardless of the perceived urgency of the matter.

When telecommunicators are asked during their pre-employment interviews why they are interested in doing this job, the most common answer seems to be “to help people.” Happy National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, especially to those who still give that answer every single year of their career. Don’t ever forget why you started this journey.