Why Emotional Intelligence Matters
If there’s one lesson I’ve learned throughout my career, it’s this: employees will always remember how a leader made them feel—for better or worse.
I had a former boss and mentor who would often tell me, “You’re the best HR guy in the industry.” Was I really the best? Probably not. He likely knew it, and deep down, I knew it too. But his words made me feel valued, engaged, and special and that’s something I’ll never forget.
The result of this relationship, I was committed to never letting him down, at least not intentionally or from lack of effort. He always got my best effort!
Over the years, I’ve had the chance to train thousands of managers, executives, and supervisors. In each session, I ask participants one question: “Think of the best boss, coach, leader, or teacher you’ve ever had. What was it about them that earned your respect?”
The answers vary, but the theme remains the same: it’s all about how that leader made them feel.
Research consistently shows that teams led by emotionally intelligent managers are more engaged and experience lower turnover. Why? Because these leaders connect with people on a personal level, making employees feel understood, valued, and motivated.
Emotional intelligence enables leaders to listen deeply, empathize genuinely, and create an environment where people are genuinely valued. This is the purpose of our academy session, “Harnessing Emotional Intelligence”.
One of the greatest strengths of emotionally intelligent leaders is their ability to handle conflict effectively. In challenging situations, they stay calm, keep communication open, and help their team focus on solutions rather than problems. This builds trust with the leader and shows the team that they can weather any storm together.
Ultimately, emotional intelligence is the glue that binds a leader's vision with the team’s ability to bring it to life. It’s the missing link in leadership—helping managers not just guide but truly inspire their teams.
As workplaces continue to evolve, developing emotional intelligence is no longer just a “nice-to-have.” It’s essential for leaders who want to make a lasting impact. Simply put, it’s the difference between being a good boss and a great boss.
Ready to make a cultural impact? Learn more about our academy or pick an upcoming event that works for you!