[July 10, 2014] The most successful senior executive leaders are professionally unemotional, yet caring and respectful. Now, that may seem like an oxymoron, and some people will even disagree with me, but leaders must have a degree of detachment else they will be consumed by the daily affairs of those they lead. Likewise, they must show that they care about people.
Emotions can interfere with the job and the most senior leaders are careful to ensure this does not happen. This is related to having a thick-skin when it comes to criticism. Yet, it is more than simply being able to withstand disparagement. Being professionally unemotional also means being able to make decisions when there is immense pressure to act in some particular way and at a particular time that is not conducive to the organization.
Let us not lose sight of the fact that the professionally unemotional leader acts in a logical, well thought-out manner. Acting hastily or without having critically thought through a decision is one place where emotions can obstruct organizational tasks and mission.
When emotions come into play, it is not unusual for the “boss” to play favorites, to cater to certain personalities, overlook workplace infractions, etc. Doing what feels good when all is going well may set the conditions for problems later on in the workplace. When things are not going well or in a crisis, a leader who acts on emotions will make decisions that are not in the best interests of the organization or its mission.
In the long run, emotions work against a leader in the most senior positions. A professionally unemotional senior leader is better for the majority of the people who are part of the organization.
[Don’t forget to “Like” the Leader Maker at our Facebook Page.]