Emotions are a Leadership Asset but a Management Liability?

April 21, 2021
# min read
Paradigm Associates LLC

Really?
Yep.

For certain aspects of a business, managing using emotions can be detrimental compared with a more disciplined approach. Regarding business decisions related to the overall vision, mission, and goals, relying on data, facts, logic, reasoning, and experience can be a sound way to go. Facts, metrics, and data can be illuminating as they guide strategic business decisions to align goals, objectives, and initiatives. Many employees have come to rely on and respect leaders who set the tone for the company and make decisions from a well-rounded, analytical point of view.

That said, business managers can fall into the trap of getting so busy watching the numbers that they ignore the warning cues from social awareness, resulting in increased employee disgruntlement. Or they may become so remote and distanced that conflicts go on unresolved. Without incorporating emotional intelligence elements such as empathy and compassion, managers can experience unhappy employees, team conflict, and lower productivity.

On the other extreme, managers viewed as overly emotional can set off red flags in others. Not seen as stable, they get described with words like arbitrary, capricious, or inconsistent. People fear what they may do next. It does not inspire confidence in their decision-making.

Leading with appropriate emotions enables leaders to better connect with all levels of employees. Consciously incorporating emotions in a manager’s leadership style can provide the understanding that strengthens teams and improves productivity and morale. An emotionally intelligent leader knows how to drive a successful business while minimizing overall stress. Through motivating employees and helping them see opportunity, they navigate their way through challenges.

A person who regularly incorporates emotional intelligence is usually better able to comprehend sticky situations and resolve conflicts. Typically, they understand their team(s) and are more easily able to guide them in the right direction- turning objectives into reality. Leading using emotional intelligence encourages employees to achieve their full potential. It can reduce employee turnover.

When leading a team, acknowledge that emotions play a critical part in keeping everyone productive and cohesive. As a leader, choose the level of emotion that positively impacts the overall long-term health of the organization or company.

Read the next article in the series:
Share this post
Leadership & Management Effectiveness

Continue Reading Additional Articles

Am I Okay with the Cost of Self-Leadership?

Leadership is complex because it requires that we confront our own fears and insecurities along the way, and sustaining that behavior for the long term is hard! ‍Leadership requires honesty in evaluating and acting in the best interest of the business's short/ mid—and long-term growth and others. 

Are You Operating Like the Fortune 500?

Here are some general "right things" this organization is doing. If done right in your organization they will help refocus the senior team, align everyone to the same page, drive execution and the results, and increase cash flow and profitability.

The Bias Trap: Why Smart People Keep Repeating the Same Mistakes

When outcomes continually miss the mark, it demands a deeper look not at the decision itself, but at the assumptions and blind spots baked into the decision-making process.

Ready to drive results with tailored strategies? Book a strategic consultation to explore how our insights can elevate your organization.

We’re dedicated to helping you achieve your goals. If you have any questions or feedback, contact us directly by phone or email. Your insights are invaluable in refining the solutions we provide and delivering the results you expect.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.