Above the line leadership implies a leader is open, curious, and focused on learning. In contrast, leadership below the line means a leader is closed, defensive, and focused on always being correct displaying a “my way or the highway” attitude, if you like.
Above the line leadership is closely linked to Emotional Intelligence (EQ), as it requires self-awareness, empathy, and the ability to manage relationships effectively.
EQ is the ability to recognise, understand and manage one’s moods, emotions and drive, and their effect on others. It is the ability to understand, manage & adjust one’s behaviour effectively which is critical in a leadership position
A person with high EQ is equipped with the capacity to empathise with others and understand their emotional state.
An EQ leader views every interaction as an opportunity to learn. It involves understanding and managing the emotions of team members and creating a positive and supportive work environment.
While EQ is about increasing your self-awareness, it is also about acceptance of others and allowing others to express themselves to you with candour. Above the line leadership means encouraging team members to voice their opinions and ideas, creating an open and collaborative environment.
A leader who dismisses suggestions from employees, insisting that their way is the best way, without considering alternative viewpoints is displaying a below the line leadership style
EQ is a vital skill as communication, collaboration and inclusion are hugely important in today’s global and technology driven world
EQ skills & abilities help us to navigate social situations, build and maintain relationships and communicate effectively.
EQ WHY?
Physician heal thyself -Many leaders are taught how to lead others, how to motivate and inspire others, how to bring out the best in others and yet few are taught to look within themselves first.
As such, EQ is becoming increasingly recognised as an important factor in leadership success and is why it is an important first step towards creating an inclusive culture
Relationship building - EQ is a critical aspect of relationships (both personal as well as professional). It helps managers understand the emotions of their team members which builds better relationships with them. This is turn, helps to foster trust, respect, and a more positive and inclusive work culture
Communication skills - EQ managers are able to understand the emotions of others and respond in a respectful, supportive and empathetic manner. They are better equipped to communicate effectively with their team members. This communication can be through: verbal, non-verbal and listening skills
One of the biggest EQ strengths is listening – even to those with whom we profoundly disagree. The aim of such conversations is often to listen and understand the other person’s view rather than to persuade them of our view or become persuaded by theirs
Conflict Resolution - EQ leaders are better equipped in the area of conflict resolutions. They are able to de-escalate situations, be open to having uncomfortable conversations, find common ground, and help team members work through issues effectively
Motivating team(s) – Covid-19 has changed the landscape of work and workers’ views of work and work-life balance. People now expect to work for organisations which offer healthy emotional and inclusive work cultures. Companies that fail to address or make changes to their cultures and leadership styles risk not only losing top talent but also risk creating toxic “only the strongest survive” type cultures
Purpose driven Talent - Many workers (especially Gen Z) are purpose driven. This means new leadership styles will require a shift from transactional (command & control) management styles to transformational (EQ growth mindset)
Self-awareness - EQ is an ongoing process that can lead to improved communication, better relationships, and greater resilience in the face of challenges. It is an essential skill for effective leadership.
Emotional Intelligence is not a "one and done" exercise. Just like building muscle, EQ necessitates consistent practice and ongoing refinement.
Emotional Intelligence (EQ) is a critical component of 'Above the line Leadership', and a key factor in creating a successful and harmonious workplace.
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ABOUT ME - I'm a Consultant specialising in ‘Inclusive Leadership and AI’ advising C-Level executives, leaders, and those in succession, on navigating the dynamic intersection of leadership, technology and inclusivity. My 'Inclusive Leadership & AI' programme begins with fostering Emotional Intelligence (EQ) and Cultural Intelligence (CQ), recognising these as fundamental pillars in navigating the transformative and ever-changing environments shaped by emerging technologies including AI. I am also the co-founder of two tech startups: a digital recruitment platform; and a geocode system tailored for emerging markets. You can read my Leadership articles at ExecutiveGlobalCoaching.com If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to me on LinkedIn.
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