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Unleash The Power Of Emotional Intelligence In Leadership And Diverse Workplace

18th May 2023

Research reveals that emotional intelligence accounts for nearly 90% of what sets high performers apart from their peers with the same knowledge and technical skills.

Leadership can be a difficult task at the best of times, but when faced with a tempestuous environment, it can become even more challenging. Tempestuous times can be characterized by uncertainty, volatility, and change, all of which can put significant pressure on leaders. However, with emotional intelligence skills leaders can weather any storm and emerge stronger than ever before.

What Is Emotional Intelligence?

Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognize, understand and manage your own emotions, as well as the emotions of others. It is a critical skill for leaders, particularly in tempestuous times when emotions can run high and wild. Leaders who possess emotional intelligence are better equipped to navigate the turbulent waters of change, remain calm and composed, and inspire and motivate their team.
 

Emotional Intelligence
 
Source: easttenthgroup.com

The term was first coined by researchers Peter Salovey and John Mayer and was later popularised by psychologist Daniel Goleman. They highlighted that most effective leaders have a high degree of emotional intelligence. And it is not that technical skills and IQ are irrelevant, but they are just entry-level requirements for executive positions and do not guarantee your long-term success.

The Four Core Components Of Emotional Intelligence
 

emotionally intelligent leader
 
Source: inside.6q.io

Emotional intelligence is generally broken down into four key competencies. This includes:
 

  1. Self-Awareness

    Self-aware leaders can recognize their strengths and weaknesses and understand how their emotions impact their behavior. This awareness helps them to regulate their emotions and avoid impulsive decisions that could have negative consequences.

    In tempestuous times, self-awareness can be particularly valuable, as it enables leaders to remain calm and composed, even when under significant stress.
     

  2. Self-Management

    This refers to one's ability to manage their emotions even in stressful situations and maintain a positive outlook despite devastating setbacks. Leaders who lack self-management often find it tricky to keep their impulses and check and hence leading to negative reactions and responses.
     

  3. Social Awareness

    Social skills refer to the ability to communicate effectively, to resolve conflicts, and to build relationships. Leaders who possess strong social skills are better able to inspire and motivate their team, communicate a clear vision, and build a culture of trust and collaboration.

    In tumultuous times, social skills are particularly important, as they enable leaders to manage conflicts, build consensus, and inspire their teams to overcome challenges.
     

  4. Relationship Management

    This refers to leaders' ability to coach, influence and mentor others while resolving conflicts effectively. Research shows that unaddressed conflicts can waste about 8 hours of a company's time in unproductive activities and gossips this draining resources and employee morale.

    Another important component of emotional intelligence is empathy. Empathy is the ability to understand and relate to the emotions of others. Leaders who possess empathy are better able to connect with their team, build trust, and foster a positive and collaborative working environment. In tempestuous times, empathy is particularly important, as it can help leaders to understand the fears and concerns of their team, and to respond in a way that is supportive and reassuring.

The Role Of Emotional Intelligence In Leadership

Leadership is all about guiding and inspiring your team and driving them to achieve a common goal. Leaders must be able to connect with their team members on an emotional level to be able to be effective. Leaders with high emotional intelligence can manage their own emotions while reading their team member’s emotions and respond appropriately thus building trust and strengthening relationships.

Another important component of emotional intelligence is empathy. Empathy is the ability to understand and relate to the emotions of others. Leaders who possess empathy are better able to connect with their team, build trust, and foster a positive and collaborative working environment. In tempestuous times, empathy is particularly important, as it can help leaders to understand the fears and concerns of their team, and to respond in a way that is supportive and reassuring.

Strategies For Developing Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence can be developed with intention and practice. Some of the key tips include:
 

  • Practice Mindfulness

    Mindfulness is the practice of being present and fully engaged in the current moment. Leaders who practice mindfulness are better able to manage their emotions, reduce stress, and make better decisions. Mindfulness can be practiced through meditation, breathing exercises, or simply taking a few minutes each day to reflect and be present.
     
  • Listen Actively

    Active listening is the practice of fully focusing on the speaker, understanding their perspective, and responding in a way that shows you have understood them. Leaders who listen actively are better able to build trust and understand the concerns of their team. Active listening requires leaders to be fully present, to listen without judgment, and to respond in a way that shows empathy and understanding.
     
  • Seek Feedback

    Feedback is a valuable tool for self-awareness and growth. Leaders who seek feedback from their team and peers are better able to understand their strengths and weaknesses, and to identify areas for improvement. Feedback can be gathered through formal channels, such as performance reviews, or informally through conversations with team members.

Why Does It Matter?

Leaders set the tone for their organization. Hence, if they lack emotional intelligence, they can have consequences resulting in lower engagement rates and high employee turnover. Therefore, leaders must undergo a Master Trainer Program to communicate with their team effectively and advance their careers in the organization. And even though emotional intelligence can be challenging to develop and apply, it is worth the effort.


Written By : Laura Taylor

         


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