In the fast-paced world of leadership, great leaders manage more than just projects and deadlines. Above all, they manage people, and managing people demands a fine blend of knowledge, wisdom, and something more abstract but equally crucial – Emotional Intelligence (EQ).
Emotionally intelligent leaders build robust connections with their employees, fostering a sense of unity and motivation within the team. Here are some ways great leaders employ emotional intelligence to forge these strong bonds:
Demonstrating Empathy: Emotionally intelligent leaders never underestimate the power of empathy. They continually make efforts to understand their team members’ perspectives, feelings, and challenges. This understanding fosters an environment of respect and trust, allowing team members to feel seen, heard, and valued.
Controlling Emotions: EQ is not just about understanding others’ emotions but also about managing one’s own. Great leaders are aware of their emotions, and how they may affect their decisions or interactions with their team. By demonstrating control over their emotional responses, leaders set a positive example and create a more harmonious working environment.
Delivering Constructive Feedback: Leaders with high emotional intelligence know how to deliver feedback in a constructive, positive manner. They understand the impact of their words and take care to present their feedback in a way that encourages improvement and development. Through their empathy, they can anticipate how their words will be received and can adjust their approach accordingly.
Being Authentic: Authenticity is key to emotionally intelligent leadership. Great leaders are true to themselves and to their team. They express their thoughts, beliefs, and values openly and honestly, which in turn fosters trust and respect within their team.
Emotionally intelligent leadership isn’t about showing dominance, but about demonstrating understanding. It’s not about commanding respect, but about earning trust. It’s about being there for your team, just as you expect them to be there for you.
Lead From Within: Great leaders master the art of emotional intelligence, making every interaction an opportunity to forge stronger, deeper connections with their team.
#1 N A T I O N A L B E S T S E L L E R
The Leadership Gap
What Gets Between You and Your Greatness
After decades of coaching powerful executives around the world, Lolly Daskal has observed that leaders rise to their positions relying on a specific set of values and traits. But in time, every executive reaches a point when their performance suffers and failure persists. Very few understand why or how to prevent it.
Additional Reading you might enjoy:
- The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership: Why It Matters
- How to Work with a Leader Who Lacks Emotional Intelligence
- How to Boost Your Leadership Emotional Intelligence
- 6 Ways to Encourage Your Employees to Reach Their Full Potential
- 4 Ways to Motivate Your Team Without Stressing Them Out
- 6 Things Successful Leaders do to Retain Their Top Talent
- How The Best Leaders Reenergize their Depleted Team
Of Lolly’s many awards and accolades, Lolly was designated a Top-50 Leadership and Management Expert by Inc. magazine. Huffington Post honored Lolly with the title of The Most Inspiring Woman in the World. Her writing has appeared in HBR, Inc.com, Fast Company (Ask The Expert), Huffington Post, and Psychology Today, and others. Her newest book, The Leadership Gap: What Gets Between You and Your Greatness has become a national bestseller.