In social work, effective leadership goes far beyond administrative tasks; It requires an acute understanding of emotions and relationships. Emotional intelligence, also known as emotional quotient (EQ), is a crucial attribute for leaders in the social work field and helps them navigate interpersonal dynamics, inspire trust, and foster collaboration, says Sharea Farmer, LCSW, the founder and CEO of RS Counseling & Wellness.
An article Farmer wrote for the SPS Administration and Supervision Section Connection examines the significance of emotional intelligence in social work leadership and explores its various aspects and practical implications.
Emotional intelligence is recognizing, understanding, regulating, and expressing emotions effectively. It involves intrapersonal and interpersonal skills and allows us to navigate our emotions while empathizing with others. Emotional intelligence is recognizing and understanding emotions in yourself and others and using this awareness to communicate and lead effectively. It includes four areas of skills, the author says:
Self-awareness: This means recognizing your own emotions and what triggers them. It involves connecting your feelings to your thoughts and behaviors rather than believing everything you feel.
Self-regulation: This entails controlling your emotions and choosing how to react in any situation. Self-regulated leaders do not let anger, anxiety, or other emotions control their behaviors.
Social emotional awareness (empathy): Empathetic leaders perceive others’ emotions through observation and listening. They understand when team members feel frustrated or upset and respond with compassion.
Relationship management (social skills): This involves communicating effectively to build relationships and influence emotions.
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