Importance of Emotional Intelligence for the Leaders to Manage People and Business Effectively in Times of Crisis

Abstract

Businesses have had financial and economic crises in the past, but none have compared to the COVID-19 pandemic, according to industry leaders. There is always a need for consistency, safety, and compassion in situations like COVID-19. Emotional intelligence has long been considered a crucial leadership skill. Now more than ever it is essential to navigate this crisis and establish a new normal. Consider emotional health as water in a glass that, in normal circumstances, might slowly evaporate and that leaders occasionally need to top off. Change, uncertainty, tension, and anxiety, however, behave like holes in the glass during a crisis, allowing water to pour out all over the place. There needs to be more top-down additions made in order to maintain emotional stability. Leadership plays an essential role in difficult situations to guide individuals or the group down the rocky path that lies ahead. Leaders must develop the traits that will enable them to efficiently manage their emotions and, in turn, assist others in managing theirs.