When we think of leadership, we often think of strength and power. But what are these really, and how do they operate?
Leadership today is not about forcing others to do things. If this is even possible, it is short-term, and tends to backfire. If you order someone to do something against their will, they may do it because they feel they must, but the anger they feel will do more harm in the long-term.
Meanwhile, they will also experience fear. Fear causes the thinking brain to shut down, making the person unable to function at his or her best. If they associate you with this emotion of fear, they will become less functional around you, and you will have succeeded in making a very good employee or partner unable to perform effectively.
The way we influence people in a lasting way is by our own character, and our understanding and use of emotion. We can order someone to do something, which may be part of the work day; or we can employ them at the emotional level, so they become fully devoted to the projects and provide some of their own motivation. Today’s work place is all about relationships. Anyone works harder in a positive environment where he is recognized and valued. Everyone produces just a bit more for someone they like. Leaders understand the way things work. They know the pay check is not the single most motivating factor in the work life of most people.
The true strength of leadership is an inner strength that comes from the confidence of emotional intelligence — knowing your own emotions, and how to handle them, and those of others. Developing your emotional intelligence is the single best thing you can do if you want to develop your relationships with people around you, which is the key to the leadership skills.
When will an employee have a feeling of anger in the work place? (Within 7 words)
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If an employee fears his boss, what will his performance be like? (Within 2 words)
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How can a leader make his employees work harder? (Within 12 words)
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What does the word “those” refer to in the last paragraph? (Within 4 words)
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What is the key to developing a leader’s relationships with his employees? (Within 4 words)
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