Becoming an Emotionally Intelligent Leader: A Recap from IAM Toronto

This October, I was invited to share my insights at the International Association of Movers conference in Toronto. Having last attended a conference in 2019, it was an honour to be asked to participate in the IAM's Leadership Alliance 's interactive session on leadership in the global moving & mobility industry.

Before diving into my insights on Emotional Intelligence (EI), I want to touch upon a personal note. Last year, I was deeply humbled to receive the Excellence in Leadership recognition from IAM. Unfortunately, I wasn't there to accept the award personally, as on the very day it was presented, I was welcoming the birth of my son, Alfie.

However I just wanted to share why this award holds such special meaning to me. It fundamentally changed my perception of myself. Many times, I've grappled with imposter syndrome, questioning my capabilities. Leadership, though rewarding, can often feel isolating. We continuously support and uplift our teams, but who offers affirmation to us? Receiving this accolade from IAM was more than just an award. It was a validation of the hard work, sacrifices, and dedication I'd poured into my role. As leaders, we often commend and uplift our teams, recognising their accomplishments. But who offers us that same acknowledgment?

Furthermore, it was my privilege this year to present the award to the deserving 2023 winner, Marcel J?rg , CEO of Gosselin Moving. Congratulations, Marcel! Known for guiding his team with vision and strategies, Marcel is a stalwart in the industry. He champions continuous learning, ensures equal career growth opportunities, and above all, values every individual within his organization.

Now, back to the focus of my talk: Emotional Intelligence.

Emotions: The Human Edge

In today's age of technology, artificial intelligence and machines have made remarkable strides, outpacing human capabilities in terms of data analysis and computation. Yet, they lack the intrinsic human ability to feel and understand emotions. Emotions, deeply ingrained in our nature, shape our interactions, decisions, and influence our worldviews. For a leader, understanding these nuances goes beyond the realms of industry acumen. Emotional Intelligence (EI) becomes paramount, ensuring a leader connects, understands, and leads with both the mind and heart.

My Journey of Emotional Awareness

Throughout my leadership journey, one particular incident emphasised the significance of Emotional Intelligence. A piece of feedback, negative in its essence, took precedence in my mind, eclipsing the overwhelming positive input from the majority. This reaction was a stark reminder that leaders, too, are susceptible to emotions. It underscored the importance of self-awareness and balance in leadership.

Five Pillars of Emotionally Intelligent Leadership

1. Self-awareness: Beyond recognising your emotions, it's about understanding their genesis and how they influence your decisions. It's the foundation of EI, allowing leaders to be in tune with both their feelings and actions.
2. Self-regulation: It's not just about controlling emotional outbursts, but refining reactions into responsive actions. It ensures that a leader's decisions aren't impulsively driven by emotions but are thoughtfully articulated.
3. Motivation: A leader with high EI is driven by a purpose that transcends beyond materialistic gains. This intrinsic motivation not only fuels their passion but also inspires their team.
4. Empathy: This isn't just about understanding others' feelings; it's about genuine concern and adjusting one's approach accordingly. Empathetic leaders foster a supportive environment where everyone feels valued.
5. Social Skills: High EI equips leaders with adept communication skills, ensuring they not only convey their vision effectively but also mediate conflicts, ensuring harmony within the team.

Emotions aren't merely abstract; they have tangible manifestations. Be it the rush of blood when angry or the calm demeanour when content, emotions influence our physiological state. Recognising these signs is instrumental for a leader. It's a constant reminder that every action, every gesture, shapes the organisational culture and impacts the team.

Emotions: Both Sides of the Coin

While emotions like anger can sometimes fuel determination and drive, unchecked, they can also cloud judgment. Similarly, the euphoria of happiness can inspire creativity, but unchecked optimism may lead to overlooking crucial details.

Leading with Heart

Notable leaders harness emotional connections. The CEO of Campbell Soup reinvigorated the business by connecting with employees, evidenced by 30,000 handwritten thank-you notes. The new PepsiCo CEO's gesture of gratitude towards her team's parents was another testament to leading with heart.

As a parting gift at the conference, I provided attendees with cards highlighting the principles of emotional intelligence.

Final Thoughts

True leadership is a journey inwards before it reflects outwards. It calls for an understanding of oneself, one's emotions, and how they interplay with actions. Embracing Emotional Intelligence is the key to leading with authenticity, purpose, and effectiveness.