What qualities define a leader? Intelligence, determination, vision? Although a certain degree of analytical and technical skill is a minimum requirement for success, emotional intelligence may be the key attribute that distinguishes outstanding performers from those who are merely adequate.
In his research, Psychologist and author Daniel Goleman found that truly effective leaders are distinguished by a high degree of emotional intelligence. Without it, a person can have first-class training, an incisive mind, and an endless supply of good ideas, but she or he still won’t be a great leader.
The chief components of emotional intelligence—self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skill—can sound unbusinesslike, but Goleman found direct ties between emotional intelligence and measurable organization results. The notion of emotional intelligence and its relevance to organizations has continued to spark debate over the past six years, but Goleman’s article cited here remains the definitive reference on the subject.
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Excerpt from Harvard Business Review, “What Makes a Leader”. Read more here
