Upper management is often stereotyped as cold and unfeeling. But increasingly, management science tells us that emotional intelligence is the key to effective leadership. Emotionally intelligent leaders inspire their teams and enjoy better outcomes. How can we better manage volatile variables like mood, morale, and motivation at work?
Mood Matters
Experts say that about 50 to 70 percent of an organization’s climate is determined by its leader. A positive work environment improves performance, enhances creativity, and improves decision-making skills. And negativity tends to make workers inefficient. Leaders have to learn to walk a line between empathizing with negative emotions when needed, while radiating enthusiasm and energy that keeps everyone engaged.