Emotional Intelligence and Empathy Based Leadership
Chapter from the book:
Kılıç Özkaynar,
G.
&
Gürler,
G.
(eds.)
2024.
Current Management Practices.
Synopsis
A comprehensive review of the role of emotional intelligence (EI) and empathy in leadership highlights how the key components of EI - self-awareness, emotional management, motivation, empathy and social skills - enhance the effectiveness of leaders. It not only explains how EI influences leadership achievements, but also supports the positive effects of empathy-based leadership on workplace engagement, motivation and productivity with examples.
It is emphasized that through the use of EI and empathy, leaders can build stronger bonds with employees, create trust within the team, and manage crises more effectively. The findings in the Turkish literature show that empathy-based leadership supports not only individual but also organizational success. It also provides suggestions for the development of EI and emphasizes that these skills can be learned. In particular, practices such as active listening, open communication and inclusive leadership stand out as ways to increase EI and empathy. Drawing on the literature, the indispensable importance of EI in leadership processes and predictions for potential future debates in this field are also discussed.