It is a general misunderstanding in some organisations that in order to be a good leader, all you need a high IQ and technical skills. Rather, as suggested by Daniel Goleman, your emotional intelligence - or your ability to wisely manage your emotions and not let them take the better of you - will enable you to better empathize with others and manage them.
What I really like, is that EQ is actually seen as a "meta capability" in the sense that your emotional intelligence will determine how well you utilize your other skills, such as IQ and technical skills, and be effective in your leadership role.
So, emotionally intelligent leaders (and people) are aware of themselves, they can regulate themselves to not get steered by their emotions. They also understand the emotional makeup of others and can show empathy - just like they have social skills to manage their relationships with them.
Emotional intelligence as holistic framework for your leadership development
Welcome to the 5th episode of leadership vitamins. Thanks for continuing to show interest in this important topic. I hope you enjoyed the first 4 vitamins - about leading up, down and within - and last, my core philosophy for great project management.
In this episode I will share a holistic framework for you to use in your development as a leader. I was recently reminded of Emotional intelligence in a great article from Harvard Business Review. And I knew I just needed to pick it up and share these important vitamins with you!
EQ for your leadership development
Understand your emotional “make-up” & triggers
Stop & manage yourself when triggered
Understand and manage others
In the video I elaborate on emotional intelligence as a holistic framework for your development as a leader.
Reflection
Are you aware of your emotional triggers? Or of people or situations that may promote them?
Who might be a good sparring partner to help you know yourself better?
What does empathy mean to you? And how do you practice it?
Who do you know with great social skills? How might you be inspired by them?
How do you prioritize acting & developing as a leader of projects?
Reading
Great 2004 article from Harvard Business Review -elaborating on emotional intelligence as a key attribute for outstanding leaders What Makes a Leader? By Daniel Goleman
Moreover his book, Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ, from 1995 is highly recommended.
Patrick Lencioni Five Dysfunctions of A Team intro
Reach out: Get 25 min. free sparring
If you need a sparring on becoming an even better project manager - feel free to book a time slot.
I believe strongly in helping project managers succeed and I will look forward to meeting you!