EQ: the defining skill of effective workplace leaders

LEADERS rarely fall short because they lack intelligence. Data and anecdotal evidence increasingly shows that the differentiating — and often defining — factor of effective workplace leadership is actually emotional intelligence (EQ).

- MICHEL KOOPMAN, PATTY FERREIRA

Leading with empathy creates the conditions needed for motivation, creativity and collaboration.

(Freepik)

Research supports this: high EQ in leaders is linked to stronger team communication, performance and innovation; while low-EQ environments see more burnout, conflict and turnover. In most cases, it's a leader's emotional gaps that lead to bruised egos, stalled progress and eroded trust.

The good news is that EQ is not a fixed trait - it's a skill that can be developed and strengthened with feedback and practice.

You can’t improve what you don’t notice. Self-awareness isn’t just about identifying your strengths — it’s also about recognising your impact. According to recent Harvard Business Publishing reports, only about 56% of employees say their immediate supervisor demonstrates self-awareness. This means almost a half of leaders may be unaware of how they’re coming across.

When a team isn’t responding the way you expect, something in your approach may need adjusting. The question becomes: are your intentions aligning with your impact?

One executive we coached realised his “high standards” came across as micromanagement. Once he saw it, he was able to shift from scrutinising details to building trust. The action here is simple but not easy: ask for feedback and then reflect without defensiveness. Don't just look at what you do, but also consider how you do it.