We use empathy maps in my line of work. They are helpful to slow a team down so they can get into the heads and hearts of those they are trying to serve (or lead).
A colleague passed along this great introduction to the exercise. While I usually see empathy maps used for understanding, say, a customer survey score, the article points out that it’s for any stakeholder. (Have you ever thought, “We’re just not getting through to that employee?”) The site also includes a downloadable worksheet.