Leading with Emotional Intelligence

When I first embarked on my design career, I often found myself hesitant to assert my voice. Over time, however, I learned that effective leadership is deeply rooted in empathy and active listening.

One of the most rewarding moments in my journey as a manager was when I helped a struggling designer on my team regain their confidence after a series of setbacks. By providing mentorship, guidance, and emotional support, I witnessed a remarkable transformation in their design approach. This not only enhanced their output but also fostered a more cohesive and supportive team dynamic.

I firmly believe that emotional intelligence is just as crucial as technical skill in leading high-performing design teams. By understanding and addressing the emotional needs of team members, leaders can create an environment where everyone feels valued and motivated to contribute their best work. Emotional intelligence, which includes self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, and social skills, is essential for successful leadership.