When we come to know others and understand them on a deeper level, we can more accurately identify their needs and concerns.  Here is what I have learned recently from an online video course taken from the Project Management Institute, Inc. entitled, “Leading with Emotional Intelligence.”

We all remember the Golden Rule from our childhoods:  “Do to others as you would have them do to you.”

The Platinum Rule states this:  “Do to others as they would want to have done to them.”

Regardless of how you might personally want to be treated, the Platinum Rule is more empathetic and accommodating to the other person’s needs.  Not everyone wants to be treated the same way.  Let go of the Golden Rule and use the Platinum Rule instead.