Goleman also said a person’s EI reflects their potential for mastering social skills, such as empathy, motivation, self-awareness, self-regulation and emotional awareness.
Unquestionably, those companies that have emotionally intelligent leaders at their helm will create a healthier work culture as a result. This, in turn, builds an environment of employees who are fully engaged, happier and ultimately content in their roles. Above all, employees of these leaders are more likely to stay with the company and serve longer than those without such a management structure. I've also observed employees in these positive cultures are keen on promoting their company to others.
One 2015 study found that leaders who are highly rated by their employees see better financial results in their companies compared to more "self-focused CEOs." Considering the strong links between empathic leadership and financial performance, it’s little wonder those companies with emotionally intelligent leaders in place boast the most successful work environments.
The qualities of an emotionally intelligent leader show up in the office in a variety of ways. Here are a few attitudes you can practice to make more emotionally intelligent decisions:
1. Understand the psychology of others.
This enables you to get a good read on the behavior of the people around you and become more understanding of how they operate. Look at how other people make the decisions they make, and let these observations inform your own practices as an emotionally intelligent leader. I've found that doing so can help you build your influence and teach you how to better persuade or negotiate with your team and others. Ultimately, by allowing yourself to learn from your colleagues and employees, I believe the result will be more favorable because you will all be in sync with one another, and there is less room for misunderstandings due to increased social awareness.
2. Consider the consequences of your actions on your colleagues and team members.
Both before and after you make a decision, to display higher EI, it's critical to look at the bigger picture and consider where everyone will be placed once decisions are made and implemented. Discuss the various pros and cons of the choice, weigh all of your options and, perhaps most importantly, extend this thinking to the effect your decision will have on those around you. I've found this ability to self-regulate can help you significantly when responding to challenging scenarios.
3. Stand by your decision, and see a plan through.
When you have to make a choice, do so with a high level of self-confidence. Follow through with the decisions you have made, and see your projects through to completion. Should your decision not run according to plan, rather than becoming indecisive, accept full accountability for your choices, stand by your actions and adapt when necessary. I believe that emotionally intelligent leaders persevere in the face of obstacles when others might be more likely to give in.
4. Provide clarity to your team.
Leaders with a focus on EI should also take the time to explain their thought process and decision making with clarity. It’s important for employees to understand the bigger purpose of their roles, as well as the impact your decision will have on helping the company reach its goals. So when you're making a choice, remember to fully commit to it, even if it means you won't be able to please everyone. After all, your decision should ultimately be for the benefit and greater good of the company. As a result, you might have to make a decision that others do not want to commit to because you believe it is for the good of the team and broader company ethos. No matter the choice, be sure to clearly explain to your team how they fit into the bigger picture.
All workplace employees want to be understood and respected. I believe the only way this can be achieved successfully is by recruiting leaders in the workplace who are emotionally equipped to cope with their colleagues and employees.
I've observed there has been a noticeable difference in the way management is taught; emotional control and elements of compassion are now noted as worthy of being included in many business and leadership disciplines. Furthermore, evidence of compassion and empathy in schools is being introduced to the younger generation. From my perspective, this highlights just how crucial understanding and being aware of emotions really is today.
