Here are 10 random things I have learned about leadership and emotional intelligence over the last 10years: -

1. The emotional health of the leader dicates the health of the business (f you’re not 100%, invariably the business isn’t).
2. If everything is a priority, nothing is a priority (don’t give everything equal priority, big impact, easy wins is what you’re after most of the time).
3. Critiscism says more about you, than anyone else (Your insecurity drives you to criticise others).
4. Transparency counts for a lot (trustworthiness and authenticity are key).
5. Consistency counts (no consistency, no trust).
6. Too little pressure = underperformance/apathy, too much pressure = underpeformance/stress. Optimum pressure = optimum performance.
7. The more clarity you generate, the more joined up your organisation becomes (or you end up being two lines going in different directions).
8. Delegate, delegate, delegate. (It hurts at first, but in time, it’s easier).
9. Keep your “WITS” about you. WITS is an acronym for “Walk in their shoes”. (Easiest way to see things from the other side of the table and always consider the other parties point of view if there is a conflict or impasse).
10. Treat everyone the same regardless of rank (people will run through brick walls for you).

And here’s the bonus point. Be lavish in your praise for others. A few kind words mean more than any pay rise (most of the time)……