The new rules of leadership start with emotional intelligence

The useful part

Rapidly changing workplaces, employee stress, generational conflict, hybrid work arrangements, and growing calls for transparency all add extra layers that leaders have to contend with. In the past leaders relied on technical skills and authority that their titles granted. These are becoming less relevant and there are growing demands for leaders who are able to instill trust and inspire commitment, and have the people skills that are considered emotional intelligence.

How it works

• The old models of leadership that focus on controlling employees are losing favor in today's workplace.
• More than just a salary and security, employees are looking for workplaces where they feel understood, respected, and valued.
• No longer satisfied with simply being a part of the organization, they want to be seen as individuals with their own personalities, skills, and lives outside of the workplace.
• They also want workplaces where they are free and safe to express their ideas, take some risks, and question the status quo.
• Every solid relationship is built on trust, in the workplace or elsewhere.

What to take from it

The ability to recognize, understand, and manage emotions in oneself and in others is the widely accepted definition of emotional intelligence. Employees are looking for leaders with whom they can form strong, authentic human connections. Leaders with high levels of emotional intelligence understand that trust can be built through increased self-awareness and reacting with honesty and authenticity in difficult situations.

Details worth keeping

Today there are additional challenges that make it increasingly difficult. Jamie Shapiro, an organizational psychologist and executive coach who is CEO of Connected EC, puts it this way: "Trust is built through the behaviors that leaders model every day and their willingness to show appropriate vulnerability."...