How do you leverage your emotional intelligence to motivate, inspire, and influence your team and others?

1 Assess your EI

The first step to leverage your EI is to assess your own strengths and weaknesses. You can use self-assessment tools, such as the Emotional Quotient Inventory (EQ-i), or ask for feedback from your peers, managers, or mentors. The EQ-i measures five dimensions of EI: self-perception, self-expression, interpersonal, decision-making, and stress management. By identifying your areas of improvement, you can set goals and action plans to enhance your EI.

2 Adapt your leadership style

The second step to leverage your EI is to adapt your leadership style to the needs and preferences of your team members. You can use the situational leadership model, developed by Paul Hersey and Ken Blanchard, to determine the appropriate level of direction and support for each individual. The model suggests four leadership styles: directing, coaching, supporting, and delegating. Each style corresponds to a different combination of task and relationship behaviors. By matching your style to the maturity and competence of your team members, you can empower them to perform better and grow.

4 Manage conflict constructively

The fourth step to leverage your EI is to manage conflict constructively. Conflict is inevitable in any team, and it can be a source of creativity and innovation, or a cause of stress and dysfunction. It depends on how you handle it. To manage conflict constructively, you need to recognize and regulate your own emotions, and acknowledge and respect the emotions of others. You also need to use assertive and respectful language, focus on interests rather than positions, and seek win-win solutions. By managing conflict constructively, you can enhance team performance and relationships.

5 Influence others positively

The fifth step to leverage your EI is to influence others positively. Influence is the ability to persuade or inspire others to follow your vision, ideas, or suggestions. It is a key skill for any leader, especially in complex and dynamic environments. To influence others positively, you need to use your EI to understand their motivations, values, and goals, and to tailor your message and approach accordingly. You also need to use effective communication techniques, such as storytelling, framing, and reciprocity. By influencing others positively, you can achieve your objectives and make a positive impact.

6 Develop your EI continuously

The sixth and final step to leverage your EI is to develop it continuously. EI is not a fixed trait that you are born with or without. It is a set of skills that you can learn and improve through practice and feedback. You can use various strategies to develop your EI, such as reading books and articles, taking courses and workshops, joining coaching or mentoring programs, or participating in EI groups or communities. By developing your EI continuously, you can become a more effective and successful team leader.