Successful and effective leadership is a multifaceted skill set that requires a blend of various traits to inspire, motivate, and guide teams toward shared goals. Among these traits, emotional intelligence, resilience and adaptability, and strong communication skills stand out for me as critical components that define successful leaders. So, let’s explore them.
Emotional Intelligence and Leadership
Emotional intelligence (EI), even though it has somehow become a buzzword, many out there may still not know the meaning. EI is the ability to recognise, understand, and manage our own emotions while also being aware of and influencing the emotions of others. No doubt that leaders with high emotional intelligence create a positive work environment that fosters collaboration and innovation. They are empathetic, which allows them to connect with team members on a personal level while getting the best out of them for their organisations from time to time.
My first example, not just because I like him so much, but about the amazing work he’s doing, would be Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft, who exemplifies the power of emotional intelligence in leadership. Upon mounting the helm of affairs, he shifted the company’s culture from one of competition to collaboration while emphasising empathy and understanding among his teams and their millions of clients. This transformation led to increased employee engagement and innovation, demonstrating how an emotionally intelligent leadership can revitalise an organisation.
EI has, over the years, emerged as a cornerstone of effective leadership, profoundly influencing how leaders connect with their teams and make decisions. From my small research, I believe EI encompasses five key components: self-awareness, self-regulation and self-acceptance, motivation, empathy, and social skills. Together, these elements form a framework through which leaders can navigate interpersonal dynamics and cultivate a positive organisational culture.
Self-awareness and self-acceptance are the foundation of emotional intelligence because leaders who possess these traits understand their emotions, strengths, and weaknesses and have accepted them, which enables them to reflect on their actions and their impact on others alongside ways to be and do better. Self-awareness allows you to respond rather than react, leading to making you a more thoughtful, constructive and decision-making leader. Self-acceptance, on the other hand, is accepting the situation one is faced with from time to time and dealing with it squarely while making something better out of awkward instances. For example, when a leader acknowledges their stress during a high-pressure situation, it shows that they can manage that stress and communicate more effectively with their team. And, this cuts across our personal lives as well.
Self-regulation refers to the ability to manage one’s emotions in a healthy manner particularly in major challenging situations. Leaders who practise self-regulation can remain calm under pressure while making rational decisions rather than impulsive ones. A prime example is Howard Schultz, the former CEO of Starbucks, who, during a financial crisis, remained level-headed, focusing on rebuilding trust with employees and customers rather than resorting to drastic cost-cutting measures. Down here in Nigeria, I see Allen Onyema, the CEO of one of the biggest airlines called Air Peace, as a perfect example of a self-regulated man because in all the numerous challenges he and his organisation have been through (and are) faced with, he has remained calm.
Another component is motivation. For emotionally intelligent leaders, it goes beyond monetary incentives; they are driven by a passion for their work and a desire to inspire others in diverse ways. This intrinsic motivation fosters a culture of engagement within their teams, encouraging employees to strive for excellence. One of the notable ways leaders can showcase motivation is by allowing their teams to air their opinions; that way, you make your team feel like stakeholders and partners in your organisation or project.
Another way is by ensuring your team takes their vacations seriously to see that they are rejuvenated and refreshed to continuously give their best. Also, leaders who share their vision and passion can create a shared sense of purpose in those around them, which can drive an organisation or team forward even in difficult times.
Empathy is perhaps the most critical element of emotional intelligence. Effective leaders must be able to put themselves in their team members’ shoes and understand their emotions and perspectives. This empathetic approach builds trust and rapport whilst fostering a sense of belonging among employees. For instance, when a leader is aware of an employee’s struggles and provides support or flexibility of timing for their work, it cultivates loyalty and dedication within the team.
Last but not the least is social skills. These are essential for building and maintaining relationships. Leaders with strong social skills can communicate effectively, resolve conflicts, and inspire others. They create an environment where open dialogue is encouraged, and team members feel safe sharing their thoughts and ideas. An example of this can be seen in Sheryl Sandberg, COO of Facebook, who is known for her exceptional social skills and her ability to connect with diverse team members across the globe.
In a nutshell, emotional intelligence is a vital trait for effective and successful leaders. By cultivating self-awareness and self-acceptance, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills, leaders can create an environment that promotes collaboration, innovation, and resilience. In today’s rapidly changing business landscape, leaders who prioritise emotional intelligence are better equipped to navigate challenges and inspire their teams toward success.
In which aspect did this article resonate with you? Don’t hesitate to share your thoughts with me in the comment section or via email (vivianchikadaniel@gmail.com), as well as LIKE and SHARE with your networks and loved ones. See you in the next edition of “Essential Traits of Successful and Effective Leaders or Leadership (Part 2)”. Remain blessed. Let’s live and let us love one another. #OneLove
