TalentSmart and its president Travis Bradberry recently conducted a study and found that the best bosses have many skills in common. They have high emotional intelligence. This can roughly be explained as that ability to understand and manage emotions or as the capability of individuals to recognize their own emotions and those of others. This makes them great people to work for.
Bradberry said that the following were amongst the best traits and strategies that these leaders employ. One might say that several of these are obvious - the real secret is in knowing when to use them.
They are Composed
These great bosses are composed because they constantly monitor their emotions. When things go awry they are calm and apparently content - frustratingly so, to those not as content. They know that everything changes and no matter how good or bad a situation, they need to adapt and adjust, to stay in control.
They are Graceful
These leaders are a perfect combination of strong and gentle. Often gentle is thought of with negative connotations, especially in the workplace. However, this allows them not to have to resort to intimidation, anger or manipulation because their gentle approach gets the job done. They are approachable and likeable and easy to get along with, all of which make people more inclined to go along with their ideas.
They are Knowledgeable
They are constantly learning and increasing their self-awareness, filling any spare moment with self-education - not only because it is the right thing to do but because it is their passion. They ask questions that are on their mind without any fear of looking stupid, as they would rather learn something new than appear smart.
They are Honest
Great bosses truly believe that honesty and integrity always work out for the best. They know that honesty allows for people to truly connect in a way that dishonesty never allows for.
They are Deliberate
These people reach decisions by thinking things out after seeking advice from others. Occasionally they rely on gut instinct but believe that overall that is ineffective and misleading. They believe that slowing things down and thinking logically allows one to develop a better solution.
They Speak with Certainty
They speak assertively because they know that it is difficult to get people to listen to you if you do not deliver your ideas with conviction.
They Use Positive Body Language
They understand that maintaining eye contact, uncrossing their arms and using an enthusiastic tone are all forms of body language that successful people use to influence others. Positive body language makes a significant difference in a conversation because very often it is more important how you say something than what you say.
They are Confident
They continuously challenge themselves and compete, no matter the environment. Even small victories are important to them, knowing that a series of small victories can result in a boost in confidence that can last a long time.
They are Fearless
They understand the difference between danger and fear. Fear is a choice. These leaders turn fear around and instead of letting fear take over, they get a high from conquering the fear.
They are Grateful
The super successful leaders know that there were many contributors to their success. They give credit to their mentors, colleagues, family and friends who have helped along the way and also understand that it took a lot of their own ambition, passion and hard work to get to where they are. They continually recognize others’ contributions that have helped make them.
These are habits that have made so many people successful. Why not give some of them a try and see where they take you?