In this episode of 
"12 Minutes with BERÇ"guest of Berc Cubukciyan is 
Ussal Şahbaz, a thought leader at the intersection of technology, business, and policymaking. 
With over 20 years of experience, 
Ussal runs a 
government affairs consultancy spanning Istanbul and Dubai, and he frequently contributes to 
global discussions through his columns in 
Turkey’s leading business newspaper, Ekonomim. 
Ussal Şahbaz emphasizes how 
“Empathy and active listening” skills are crucial for 
effective decision-making and 
professional success. He explains challenges faced by tech 
executives and the 
significance of 
understanding stakeholders' perspectives. Ussal Şahbaz highlights that 
empathy is a 
learnable skill, offering 
advice for Gen Z to cultivate these abilities in the digital age.  
You will find in this episode: What is Empathy and Active Listening?
Empathy in Decision Making
The Importance of Listening
Challenges for Tech Executives
Empathy as a Learnable Skill
Active Listening in Personal Life
Future Skills for Gen Z
Developing Active Listening Skills
Common Ground in Communication 
✨ Join us as we explore the transformative power of core skills every week; and gain valuable insights & strategies to adapt and excel in an ever-changing 
#professional landscape.