How Emotional Intelligence Prevents Executive Failures
Recent media highlights have underscored numerous cases where failed CEOs have fallen prey to their lack of emotional intelligence (EI), resulting in ethical misjudgments. These high-profile instances have prompted corporate boards to increasingly prioritize emotional intelligence as a critical leadership capability.
Executives who overestimate their intelligence and operate under the illusion that they remain untouchable are particularly vulnerable to ethical failures. Arrogance not only distorts their ability to accurately assess situations but also clouds their judgment, leading to detrimental outcomes.
In a thought-provoking Wall Street Journal article, neuroscience journalist Jonah Lehrer explores the paradox of power by illustrating how individuals can transform upon assuming authority roles. Lehrer notes that “people in power tend to reliably overestimate their moral virtue,” leading them to eschew oversight and fill corporate boards with allies. This dynamic can culminate in power wielded dangerously.
Research led by Daniel Goleman and fellow experts supports the notion that emotional intelligence is a skill that can be cultivated over time, often improving with age and maturity. For instance, in a 2005 study, TalentSmart evaluated the EI of 3,000 top executives in China. Results showed that Chinese leaders scored, on average, 15 points higher than their American counterparts in self-management and relationship management. As the global business landscape becomes increasingly competitive, the United States must strive to enhance emotional competencies among its leaders.
Cultivating Emotional Intelligence for Ethical Leadership
Developing emotional intelligence is a process that requires dedicated effort, beyond what is typically taught in academic settings. Successful EI development involves consistent training, practice, and reinforcement.
The initial approach to enhancing EI begins with effective measurement—utilizing tools like behavioral-based interviews and 360-degree feedback. For executives unaccustomed to receiving feedback, this method can initially feel threatening. However, it is crucial to overcome these apprehensions as the feedback process unveils vital gaps and opportunities for growth.
Engaging with executive coaching, such as our specialized healthcare coaching, can be instrumental in honing EI skills. A coach provides a valuable external perspective, guiding leaders in strengthening their emotional regulation and relationship management abilities.
Leadership Influence and Organizational Well-being
As an executive, your emotional state and actions inexorably influence team dynamics and overall performance. This trickle-down effect can either elevate or undermine organizational well-being and success. By enhancing your emotional intelligence, you are better positioned to foster ethical leadership and avert the ethical pitfalls often associated with low EI.
If you are ready to explore and expand your emotional intelligence, working with a coach can provide the guidance needed for personal and professional development. I invite you to reach out if you desire assistance in strengthening your emotional competencies. Let’s work together to fortify your leadership integrity and drive positive transformation within your organization.
Creator of the KASHBOX: Knowledge, Attitude, Skills, Habits
Helping You Realize Your Potential
I help people discover their potential, expand and develop the skills and attitudes necessary to achieve a higher degree of personal and professional success and create a plan that enables them to balance the profit motives of their business with the personal motives of their lives.
