Emotional intelligence in leadership
Welcome to our May edition of Life Science Leaders! In this month’s round-up, we look at the role of emotional intelligence in effective leadership, the value of empathy in driving innovation, and what it takes to be an affiliative leader.
Why is emotional intelligence so important?
According to the World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs report and Forbes, emotional intelligence tops the list of leadership skills for 2024. Soft skills associated with emotional intelligence, such as resilience, curiosity, lifelong learning, motivation, and self-awareness, are highly sought after by businesses and will continue to be so for the next few years. Often overshadowed by technical skills and strategic expertise, emotional intelligence can be the silent force that drives successful leaders to new heights. But what exactly is emotional intelligence, and why is it so important in leadership?
At its core, emotional intelligence includes the ability to recognise, understand, and manage both our own emotions and those of others. It acts as a compass that enables leaders to navigate the complicated landscapes of relationships with others and organisational dynamics. Additionally, emotional intelligence allows leaders to resolve conflicts, promote trust, and create a positive working environment filled with collaboration and innovation.
Perhaps the most important contribution of emotional intelligence to leadership is in its influence on organisational culture. Leaders who prioritise empathy inspire workplaces categorised by authenticity, inclusivity, and mental health awareness. In such environments, employees feel empowered to speak up, take risks, and fulfil their full potential.
Is empathy your greatest strength?
Empathetic leaders are good at putting themselves in other people’s shoes and working to truly to understand how people feel. They prioritise listening, recognising individual needs and taking action. Empathy in leadership contributes to positive relationships which in turn drives better results and innovative breakthroughs.
Is empathy your leadership superpower? Take our quiz to find out!
Affiliative leadership: Putting people first
Affiliative leaders strive to build solid personal connections and promote harmony within their team. They focus on creating sense of community and trust and strongly value the emotions of others.
By valuing empathy and open communication, affiliative leaders help reduce stress and conflict, thereby promoting innovation and resilience. This approach is particularly beneficial in the life sciences industry, where interdisciplinary teamwork and complex problem-solving are crucial for advancing scientific discoveries and improving patient care.
For more expert advice for those wanting to make a meaningful impact in the life sciences industry, download our leadership guidebook today.