The EQ Leader

Leadership, whether supervisory or upper management, requires a special skill set. What are these skills? The EQ Leader offers an evidence-based model for acquiring the skills needed to become an exceptional leader. Based on Dr. Steven Stein's international research from thousands of leaders and aspiring leaders, this vital resource details a four-pillar approach to stellar leadership. Stein's research demonstrates that outstanding leaders incorporate this approach into their everyday work life and are able to propel their teams to greater heights that differentiate successful from not so successful leadership. The author's extensive research uncovered the four characteristics that define successful leaders: Authenticity (the ability to be a role model, inspiring, fair, and display moral behavior); Coaching (operating as a mentor, supporting employee's needs); Insight (communicating with a purpose, meaning, and vision); and Innovation (spurring ingenuity, imagination, and autonomous thinking). The EQ Leader offers anyone in a leadership position, as well as consultants and trainers, a road map for putting these four key factors into place. Filled with illustrative examples and concrete steps for improving skills and competencies, this important resource also draws on new data from the author's own research into executive functioning. In addition, Stein describes the neurological aspects of leadership and includes an examination of effective leaders, delving into the fundamental differences that set them apart from ineffective leaders and shows what fuels their achievement. The typical leader of the past was ego-driven. The decisions this person made were often more about self than about what was best for their company and changing your mind was perceived as unbearable weakness. This type of leader feared looking bad as much as he or she feared doing bad. Forward-thinking leaders are more concerned with success than with other people's opinion about them. They are driven by the future and opportunities, not by the past or ego. Worrying about looking good, being consistent, or keeping the status quo were yesterday's virtues, but today's kiss of death. Successful leaders put their egos behind their missions, move forward with the times, and aren't afraid to alter their positions as necessary. The EQ Leader provides step-by-step guidance for leading from within this space, with evidence-based approaches for success.