A generation ago, a “great leader” was defined as strategic, decisive, or visionary. Those qualities still matter. But today, emotional intelligence in leadership is what truly sets exceptional leaders apart.
As a career counsellor and licensed therapist working with leaders across Halifax and the Maritimes, I see firsthand that leaders who understand and manage their emotions build stronger, more connected teams. Research highlighted in Harvard Business Review describes emotions as a “leadership asset.” Leaders who can pause, reflect, and respond thoughtfully make better decisions, navigate conflict more effectively, and inspire lasting trust.
In my leadership coaching and counselling work, I often use the Leadership Effectiveness Analysis (LEA), an evidence-based leadership assessment that highlights six major dimensions of leadership effectiveness. These include developing followership, creating vision, executing plans, and collaborating as a team player. Emotional intelligence directly influences each of these areas.
When leaders increase their self-awareness, they begin to see how emotional habits — such as defensiveness, avoidance, or over-control — may limit their impact. With intentional leadership development, they learn to respond rather than react. They lead not only with strategy, but with presence and emotional regulation.
Emotions are not a liability. They are information.
When leaders learn how to interpret and use emotional data effectively, emotional intelligence becomes one of their most powerful leadership tools — a true 21st-century advantage.
References
Harvard Business Review. (n.d.). Emotions in leadership: An asset. Retrieved from LinkedIn
