What makes a good leader? Studies show that emotional intelligence is a critical factor. Alongside 33 other important workplace skills, research reveals that emotional intelligence is the strongest predictor of performance, responsible for 58% of success in all job types, and 90% of top performers have high emotional intelligence (Travis Bradberry, TalentSmartEQ).
What does it mean to be an emotionally intelligent leader?
Emotionally intelligent leaders possess seven important leadership qualities that spell out the word LEADERS.
L is for listening. Emotionally intelligent leaders place a higher value on listening than they do talking.
E is for equipping. Emotionally intelligent leaders equip their employees with the tools and resources necessary to fulfill their positions’ requirements effectively.
A is for appreciation. Emotionally intelligent leaders appreciate the people they work with and invest time, effort and money to show their gratitude.
D is for developing. Emotionally intelligent leaders know their employees are their most important asset. They consistently create development opportunities to help their people grow and advance.
E is for enlisting. Emotionally intelligent leaders enlist support from others because they know that their employees and team members are critical to implementing change effectively and efficiently.
R is for relationships. Emotionally intelligent leaders understand that their success or failure rests on the quality of their relationships with others. They invest heavily in building and deepening those professional relationships.
S is for service. Emotionally intelligent leaders realize that they must first give the most to their employees to get the most from employees. They constantly seek ways to serve their employees instead of waiting on employees to serve them.
Now that you know some of the qualities of emotionally intelligent LEADERS, are you in this category? What steps might you take to increase your emotional intelligence?
READ NEXT: Three Things Emotionally Intelligent Leaders Say
Become a More Emotionally Intelligent Leader
Emotional intelligence isn’t something you’re born with; it can be learned. Join the Nonprofit Leadership Center and Dr. John Loblack for his upcoming training class Developing Emotional Intelligence & Resilience on January 16 in Tampa. Then, see all the upcoming events at the Nonprofit Leadership Center to help you enhance your leadership skills and become a more effective leader
