Here are a few ways Emotional Intelligence shows up in a leader:
- Emotions don't dictate decisions
- An effort is made to help others feel seen, heard, and understood
- There is a commitment to effective, open communication (this includes providing clear expectations, frequent updates, and encouraging consistent feedback)
- Creating value > time spent working
Let's explore #3 a bit further, specifically the point about consistent feedback:
Regular feedback is a key aspect of effective coaching and mentorship, which is a core competency of EQ (under the Relationship Management domain).
Three reasons why consistent feedback is vital to a great coach or mentor:
1. Making adjustments - How do you know what's working? What's not working? When should an approach be modified or a goal reevaluated altogether? Consistent feedback provides answers to these questions and will save time, energy, and other resources from being wasted on inefficient behaviors and processes.
2. Identifying blocks and challenges - With this information, a leader can provide support and resources to help their team members move through specific challenges (or even remove blocks altogether). By providing feedback regularly, potential setbacks can be identified early on; solutions can be proactively put in place before a chaos spiral takes over and creates unnecessary damage.
3. Keeping morale and momentum high - Often, reinforcing (positive) feedback is neglected. Consistent feedback ensures even the smallest wins and achievements are celebrated, and employees feel valued. When people feel valued and recognized, they are more likely to show up as energized, enthusiastic brand ambassadors and make an effort to improve performance.
A final note: Consistent feedback is part of a healthy team culture. When employees are encouraged to provide and receive feedback on a regular basis, it creates a sense of psychological safety.
Self-reflection question for you: along with consistent feedback, what other ways might a leader with high EQ show up as a coach and mentor? (Hint: think of some of the most legendary athletic coaches. What behavior did they model? What processes did they put in place for their team?)