Emotional Intelligence: The Differentiator in Leadership
Recently we conducted Emotional Intelligence (EQ) assessments and 1:1 Coaching debriefs of 16 regional leaders from diverse backgrounds and industries. These leaders represented various roles and careers in health care, financial, not for profit, manufacturing and retail. What we found was very interesting.
The leaders each had their own profound insights into managing or the lack of managing their emotions in their daily personal and workplace environments. In addition, they each chose different areas of EQ dimensions to pursue as development opportunities whether that was Self Awareness, Self Regulation, Motivation, Social Awareness or Social Regulation. These leaders were vulnerable and honest with each one opening to a deeper level of thinking about what it takes to set themselves apart as leaders.
The time and energy these leaders spend in their own development around Emotional Intelligence will truly begin to pay off in the long game. As leaders, like it or not, we are responsible for the mood of the organizations and teams we serve. Turns out that how we make people feel is truly important and also key to the success of our leadership. We know this is a high level of responsibility and is not always easy as it takes vulnerability, honesty and constant hard work.
At The Quality Coach® we believe Emotional Intelligence is a differentiator in leadership. Americans also back this up according to a recent study conducted by Preply in December of 2022 surveying 1,006 Americans about Emotional Intelligence in the workplace.
Major takeaways from the survey:
American workers value a person’s Emotional Intelligence in the workplace even more than their IQ
Workers want to hear that they are appreciated and notice when their boss lacks EQ
Showing empathy and appreciation to your colleagues can go a long way and may take you up the career ladder
“I appreciate you/your work” is what most employees value hearing
53% say they wish their company offered training for emotionally intelligent communication
Workers say about half of their bosses have lacked Emotional Intelligence
This survey echoes what we hear from the workforce across all industries as our team is out in the field. You may find more detail and great information from the recent survey here.
The new article Why Resilient Executives are Better Leaders posted by SHRM speaks to the resiliency needed in today's fast paced and ever changing business environment.
The pace of change presents more challenges than ever for organizations to stay in business and remain competitive. The company leaders interviewed speak to the flexibility needed as well as self awareness and the ability to continuously learn in order to be effective during challenging times. ‘The way we look at resilience has changed. We used to think it was grit, being strong, getting through it. Now it has shifted to more self-awareness and responsiveness to the people around you.’
On the surface pursuing opportunities of development in Emotional Intelligence and actually putting them into action seems super simple and easy. However, have you ever heard the term habits are hard to break? Why is that? As human beings our own unique behavioral styles, culture, background, and experiences all play into how we react or don’t react to certain situations. Understanding our emotions and how to better regulate them leads to better decision making, collaboration and overall successful outcomes. The good news is that we can develop our Emotional Intelligence if we are intentional about doing so.
How will you differentiate yourself as a leader through development of your own Emotional Intelligence?
Dr. Brenda Bouse is the Owner and CEO of The Quality Coach®TTI Success Insights Emotional Quotient™ Certified (TEQC). Brenda works with clients providing a results-oriented approach in finding valuable solutions to their challenges. Contact Brenda directly here: Brenda@thequalitycoach.com, or for more info about services contact: info@thequalitycoach.com.