The 2018 Essentials: Emotional Intelligence

Leaders with higher levels of emotional self-awareness, empathy, adaptability and other competencies that comprise emotional intelligence may be better prepared for the many disruptions of the past year and in the year to come. But experts say many of these so-called soft leadership skills can be learned over time. In this “Essentials” list, start with an overview of the broad power of self-awareness, mindfulness, and the other skills of emotional intelligence have. Then read some of 2018's most-read articles about EI's impact in the workplace, each written by Daniel Goleman, Korn Ferry contributor and author of the best-selling book “Emotional Intelligence.”

THE BEHIND-THE-SCENES IMPACT OF EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE
Developing EI skills can give leaders more flexibility and help persuade 70% of employees to stay five years or longer.

THE HIDDEN OPPORTUNITY OF CONFLICTS AT WORK
Research shows that coolheaded managers can turn on-the-job disagreements into big gains.

THE ART OF EFFECTIVE FEEDBACK
Great leaders can empathize with their employees and still have tough conversations about performance with them.

YOUR EMOTIONS AT WORK ARE CONTAGIOUS
Without realizing it, leaders can pass along their feelings, positive or negative, to their team members.
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WHAT IS EMOTIONAL SELF AWARENESS?
​Understanding how your emotions affect your performance is the foundation of great leadership.