Any leader today should understand the importance of emotional intelligence (EI) – the ability to understand and work well with others. Leaders that embody this human-focused trait are good listeners, empathetic and make attentive and complete decisions.
Marcel Schwantes, principal and founder of Leadership From the Core, writes in a recent Inc.com post that EI is going to become even more valuable in years to come. He cites Harvey Deutschendorf, EI expert and author, who says companies are placing a higher value on this trait because it leads to a competitive advantage.
How can this trait be practiced so it comes more naturally to today's leaders?
Schwantes summarizes a blog post by Six Seconds CEO Joshua Freedman that takes advice from company leaders worldwide. Some of the responses I found most helpful include:
- Pause and acknowledge your thoughts and feelings.
- Focus on what you can influence.
- Find something impossible to do and practice.
- Tap into compassion everywhere.
- Set aside two minutes to relax and breathe deeply.
- Share your feelings and ask for feedback.
I encourage you to read Schwantes full post. It also contains two lists of top job skills required for workers to thrive – one from 2015 and one for 2020. EI is No. 6 on the list of necessary job skills in 2020 – the trait isn't even on the list for 2015.
Part of being a good leader is seeing the trends and staying ahead of the curve; practicing those skills that will become even more important in years to come. Follow me on Twitter (@BDanBerger).
