Have you heard of the concept of emotional leadership?

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The job market calls for leaders who are equipped to take on uncertainty and challenges in a landscape of constant change. In this context, emotional intelligence stands out as a skill linked to a leader's ability to manage their own emotions, as well as those of the people they lead.

Such a professional helps to create a far lighter, healthier and more inclusive working environment. After all, in that environment everyone has room not only to work, but also to feel.

Below, we take a closer look at the concept of emotional leadership.

What is this type of leadership?

Emotional leadership, as the name suggests, is a type of leadership based on the ability to be emotionally intelligent.

A leader with this quality can use it both for their own benefit, that is, to manage and regulate what they feel, and to foster a better relationship with their team, for example by practising empathy, listening to and understanding the people who work with them.

It is no coincidence that a leader with these qualities brings out the best in a team. They encourage, motivate and guide their people along a positive path.

After all, the workplace isn't always a bed of roses. Employees are often exposed to situations that cause frustration, stress, anxiety and other negative emotions. These factors lead to a drop in motivation and productivity, which can be turned around more easily when the team is led by an emotionally intelligent leader.

What are the qualities of a good emotional leader?

A good emotional leader needs certain qualities in their DNA. At least, that is what is expected.

In general, it is important for this leader to have emotional self-control and self-knowledge, and to be empathetic and motivated. After all, only those who carry motivation within themselves can motivate others.

These leaders also tend to have strong social skills and to be excellent communicators.

Of course, everything depends on the type of emotional leader a person wishes to become. Shall we look at the main types?

What are the types of emotional leadership?

According to the book Primal Leadership, there are six types of emotional leader. They are:

1. Coach or instructor: a leader who is always concerned with aligning the needs of individuals with those of the organisation.

2. Authoritative: a leader who keeps the team engaged and motivated to achieve difficult goals and targets. Proof that a firm, authoritative style is not necessarily a bad thing, as long as it is used in this empathetic, human way.

3. Affiliative and/or nurturing: a leader who is highly skilled at motivating the team in difficult situations, especially by fostering good relationships between people and resolving conflicts.

4. Democratic: values each team member's role in the “whole” and is especially valuable at times that call for consensus.

5. Directive: knows how to give clear instructions, making them a leader who is very well equipped to handle emergencies.

6. Visionary: a leader who motivates by sharing their dreams, visions and opinions with others. Especially valuable at times when the team needs to transform.

What about you? Did you recognise yourself in any of these leaders, or would you like to become one? NEUROON develops professionals, brings your life purpose fully into the light and maps out the path to emotional leadership. Get in touch with us to find out how.