Episode #528: Can The EQ Boss Get Results When Leading?

 
I went from being a strict, dependable boss to a laid-back, erratic leader in an abrupt change in leadership styles. The latter, an emotional quotient (EQ) leader, put everyone's needs first and based decisions on the most recent feedback. Even with his compassionate nature, he lacked a strong core, which made things difficult to accomplish. When the two were compared, the EQ leader proved to be the more difficult boss since it required striking a balance between decisiveness and sensitivity. Although there were a lot of autocratic leaders in the past, modern workplace dynamics—especially with younger generations—demand leaders that put teamwork and employees' goals first. The risk is in possibly compromising outcomes in order to satisfy the needs of a less seasoned staff.

A new kind of leadership is needed in order to accomplish goals without using dictatorship. It is essential to comprehend the team's ambitions and match them with the organization's objectives. Instead than assuming that everyone on the team has the same viewpoint, leaders need to acknowledge the diversity of motivations and values inside the group. The aim is for everyone to succeed and be happy together, which will bring wealth to the business. The problem, though, comes when the team and the manager disagree on important choices, like the one being discussed right now on going back to the office. Recognising that the workplace is not a democracy, leaders may need to take controversial positions while encouraging candid dialogue in order to preserve the organization's direction and cohesion.