Career Development

When reflecting on great leaders, people often highlight qualities such as vision, decisiveness, and strategic thinking. While these traits are significant, emotional intelligence (EI) is another factor that quietly enhances the impact of the best leaders. Unlike technical expertise or business acumen, emotional intelligence entails understanding ourselves and those around us. Leaders with high emotional intelligence can bridge divides, inspire loyalty, and guide their teams through challenges with clarity and compassion. At its core, emotional intelligence turns managers into leaders that people choose to follow.

Leadership is a skill, but it's also a practice. The best leaders share traits that set them apart and inspire their teams to reach greater heights. These traits aren't about being perfect but intentional, authentic, and committed to growth. Through years of working with executives, I've observed that genuinely effective leaders embody a blend of vision, communication, adaptability, and integrity. These traits create a foundation for success for both the individual leader and the organization as a whole.

At the VP level, leadership is both a privilege and a challenge. Your experience commands respect, but staying effective in a growing organization demands more. The best leaders understand that their growth is never finished. They commit to lifelong learning—not as a chore, but as a path to sustained relevance and impact. For mid-career leaders, lifelong learning isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a necessary edge. It’s how you stay ahead of evolving challenges, inspire your team, and equip your organization for continuous success.

Leadership isn't solely about managing a packed calendar or checking off tasks on a to-do list. The intentional choices you make—the priorities you establish—define your leadership style, how you support your team, and how you guide your organization. These decisions shape the outcomes for your business and your development as a leader. This article reflects on my experiences coaching talented executives to frame and execute their priorities.