Why is it that some people can lead and others can’t?

Is it a personality issue?

Everyone knows a story about a very smart person that is promoted into leadership at an organization and truly flops at the position. You and I also know of a person with ordinary abilities who was eventually given a leadership role that was outstanding. Why the difference?

I believe and the research by Daniel Goleman has proven that the ability to relate to people on an emotional basis is a skill that all leaders need in order to become extra-ordinary. In my own life I’ve worked with Sales Managers that were extra-ordinary sales people but were the biggest tyrants I’ve ever seen. I believe that was because they did not relate to their sales staff on a personal level.

Dr. Goleman stated that cognitive skills such as big-picture thinking and a long-term vision were very important. So if you have Sales Manager who is only driven by short-term results and is continuously bullying the sale staff – the long-term results will be poor.

What can you do to improve your ability to work with others on an emotional basis, today?