Hard to Get There Alone
It is often lonely at the top. Top level executives in any organization experience a certain level of isolation – often correlated to the size of the organization and their level on the organizational chart.
Most executives don’t have anyone to talk to about their strengths and weaknesses. Unfortunately, these executives don’t realize how they are viewed by their peers, manager or subordinates. Nor is it likely that they get the truth about their performance especially from their subordinates.
It’s interesting that CEOs as a group have very low Emotional Intelligence or EQ scores. You might ask the reason, since it seems counter intuitive. Typically the best performers usually have the highest EQs. However, CEOs are often hired for strong financial skills, and are often not strong people managers. That would certainly pull down their emotional intelligence scores.
Forbes reported that 40% of new executives derail within the first 18 months. According to Business Week executives often fail for two key reasons –
- Excessive aggression
- Poor conflict management
It’s likely that stress increases as leaders move higher in an organization. Investors Business Daily suggests that interpersonal relationship are often weak.
Assessments like the Goleman’s ESCI not only measure agressiveness and conflict, but also measure interpersonal relationships, self-control, social awareness, self-management and relationship management.
The solution?
Awareness is crucial. An executive coach may help a newly-appointed executive succeed. A top executive coach will provide honest and candid feedback, and be the leader’s confident. The leader is more likely to be open with a coach than a subordinate or colleague. Here are a few things you can do to start increase your emotional intelligence.
- Learn about emotional intelligence.
- Take a EQ assessment to increase your awareness.
- Find an executive coach who is certified in Emotional Intelligence to help indentify your EQ strengths and weakness. It’s easier with a coach than doing it alone.
To learn more about executive coaching or emotional intelligence, call 513-772-5115 or contact us for a preliminary discussion.