A leader must possess and develop specific skills to lead their teams effectively. Emotional intelligence is among the most critical. It ensures you are in tune with your emotions and the emotions of those around you. This trait forms a crucial connection that breeds transparency and support.

What is Emotional Intelligence?

Emotional intelligence was first coined by John Mayer and Peter Salovey in 1990. It later became popular with psychologist Daniel Goleman, who stressed the importance of emotional intelligence in his article, What Makes a Leader. The article cited that while IQ and technical skills are essential, leaders cannot grow without emotional intelligence.

A leader with emotional intelligence will recognize their emotions and control them accordingly. They will also be capable of reading emotions in others. This trait helps them negotiate effectively and create a caring and supportive business community.

What are the Benefits of Emotional Intelligence?

• Creates a Positive Work Culture: Workers who know employers are in tune with their emotions will feel more comfortable and cared for in their work environment. They will be happier, more productive, and more loyal.
• Encourages Growth and Innovation: Employees feel more comfortable sharing their ideas when leaders express emotional intelligence. They will more likely develop innovative solutions to aid problem-solving and product development.
• Better Negotiations: Emotional intelligence helps with negotiations. Leaders can use this trait to determine when colleagues are open to negotiating or becoming obstinate. They can adjust their strategies accordingly.
• Better Decision Making: Leaders who consider emotional intelligence in decision-making will make decisions that benefit everyone.
• Promotes Transparency: Emotional intelligence enables leaders to be more aware of their emotions and motivations, allowing them to communicate more openly and honestly with others. This viewpoint breeds transparency that supports stakeholder satisfaction.
• Adaptability and Resilience: Emotionally intelligent leaders are in tune with workers’ needs in the face of change and challenges. They will provide support that promotes resilience and adaptability.

What are the Components of Emotional Intelligence?

• Self-Awareness: A self-aware leader will be familiar with their strengths and weaknesses. They will regulate their emotions in challenging situations. Self-awareness will help them guide teams, accomplish tasks, make wise decisions, and effectively use feedback to grow their company.
• Self-Management: Self-management involves managing one’s emotions in various situations. It ensures leaders promote positivity despite unpleasant circumstances. Leaders with strong self-management skills will also reduce the risk of letting emotions guide their decisions.
• Social Awareness: Social awareness means the leader is in tune with the world outside of business. They understand that their customers and external stakeholders are integral to their organizations. Socially aware leaders will consider how others react to their activities and choose strategies that support organizational wellness and growth.
• Relationship Management: Leaders play a significant role in relationship management. They are responsible for resolving conflicts, motivating teams, and completing projects. Leaders must also communicate with clients and customers to promote a positive environment. Well-developed relationship management skills will support beneficial interactions.

How to Develop and Strengthen Emotional Intelligence

• Journaling: Leaders should consider recording daily activities and reflecting on outcomes. Doing so helps them get in touch with their emotions and the emotions of others. They can determine what works and what doesn’t to improve future outcomes.
• Ask for Feedback and Self-Assess: Actively request feedback from managers, colleagues, and employees while undergoing ongoing self-assessment. These practices will help you identify strengths and weaknesses and build emotional intelligence skills.
• Practice Active Listening: Active listening goes beyond hearing what people are saying. It involves asking questions, paraphrasing, and using and paying attention to body language. These activities ensure you are in tune with the messages stakeholders are sending. It also promotes better relationships.
• Pay Attention to Your Emotions: An awareness of your emotions will ensure you keep them under control. Recognize what is causing strong reactions and know how to mitigate them. Doing so will promote clearer-headed responses and help you understand others’ emotions.
• Take an Online Course: Several online courses allow you to develop emotional intelligence and become a more decisive leader. Investigate your options to determine which is best suited to your needs.

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