They say a picture paints a thousand words. Consider the following word clouds, the first describing the key attributes of high emotional intelligence, the second a snapshot of the competencies experienced and capable professional women bring to the leadership table. Notice any important synergies or similarities? Considered together these graphics put forward a compelling argument for gender diversity in the senior executive ranks of every organisation.

Key Characteristics of High Emotional Intelligence

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Key Competencies of Experienced and Capable Professional Women

It has been said that emotional intelligence EQ is the new IQ. But what does this mean and why does it matter? Interestingly, there is no direct correlation between the two. Broadly speaking IQ measures a person’s intellect or cognitive ability to learn, and remains fairly static over a lifetime. EQ, on the other hand, refers to a person’s wide ranging emotional abilities to better understand and empathise with others in their daily interactions. Unlike IQ, emotional intelligence is a flexible set of skills that can be learned and improved with practice over time.

We know high emotional intelligence is the hallmark of a good leader. The ability to get things done, to think creatively and act with integrity whilst navigating an increasingly complex environment of competing interests requires foresight and empathy.  Without emotional intelligence it is difficult to build trust, forge strong working relationships and manage difficult situations effectively. Not to mention the lack of cohesion in problem solving, co-operation and productive group participation when self-interest is at play.

Once overlooked and misunderstood, emotional intelligence is now gaining traction as a highly desirable leadership skill. Unfortunately it can also be elusive and at times difficult to source. In today’s hyper competitive business environment, the challenge for every organisation is to look outside the square and raise the stakes on emotional intelligence. There’s a whole new world of possibilities waiting to be discovered simply by daring to take the road less travelled.

Know that there is a valuable, untapped  pool of talented and motivated professional women out there, locked out of furthering their careers by nothing more than an extended leave of absence on their otherwise impressive CV’s. Recognise that the combination of a career hiatus and exposure to varied and diverse paths has afforded those women the perfect opportunity to further develop and hone EQ. Realise the competitive advantage of building  a sustainable pipeline of highly emotionally intelligent women. It’s there for the taking.