The Role of Emotional Intelligence Is Discussed In Terms Of Its Impact on Leadership

Emotional Intelligence is needed in Leadership. Emotional Intelligence does not fit the classic historical models of leadership. The latter are usually associated with great figures of military history and conjure up charismatic images. However, people often use the same language for leadership today – bold, brave and tough with a strong sense of purpose and resolve.

However, this does not fit today’s needs, because:

• Today‘s workforce does not accept the autocratic style often adopted by leaders following historical models of leadership.
• Leadership has had to evolve to match a growing sense of democracy and independence in the workforce.
• Employees now have far more options and choices than the foot soldiers of yesterday.
  Leaders now need to manage and lead an “empowered” workforce and go beyond the consultative, co-operative and democratic styles of today. These new demands include:
• Consultation and involvement – but leaders still get criticised for not having and communicating a compelling vision and purpose
• Autonomy and freedom – but leaders are still expected to take full responsibility when things go wrong
• Opportunities for growth, challenge and glory – but leaders must be on hand to coach and mentor us so that we develop our potential
• Inclusion and team spirit – but we still want our leaders to give us individual recognition and acknowledgement.

The key Emotional Intelligence competencies involved in leadership are:

• Self-Awareness
• Empathy
• Social Responsibility
• Stress Tolerance
• Flexibility
• Self-actualization
• Optimism and Happiness

Good leaders are aware of their emotions (Self Awareness) and understand the way they and others feel (Empathy). They are able to identify with others and are cooperative group members at home and at work (Social Responsibility). They are also able to effectively and constructively manage their emotions, so that they work for them and not against them (Stress Tolerance). They are able to change, adapt and adjust their feelings and thinking to new situations (Flexibility) and have sufficient achievement drive to follow through with their aspiration and strive to actualize their potential and help develop others (Self-actualization). Finally they are positive, optimistic and able to motivate themselves and others during difficult conditions (Optimism and Happiness).