Elevation Insights – February 2025

Emotional Intelligence (EI) has long been recognised as a critical business skill, but its significance is only increasing in the era of AI. As more tasks become automated, the ability to connect, empathise, and build relationships is becoming a key differentiator. According to HR Magazine, a holistic approach must be taken by organisations to identify the specific stages in the employee lifecycle that can be improved by the infusion of EI skills. HR Magazine also reports that 72% of managers consider emotional capabilities among the top five essential leadership skills. Despite this, half report a lack of organisational support in developing these competencies.

Emotional Intelligence is far from just a ‘soft skill’ – it has a measurable impact on business performance. According to research reported by hrnews a 10% increase in a manager’s EI score correlates with a 7% rise in overall business performance, including profitability. Additionally, a study from the University of Essex highlights how emotional awareness influences financial decision-making differently across genders, offering valuable insights into the role of EI in business strategy.

A crucial aspect of EI is consistency – Emotional Intelligence should be displayed across all interactions, not just selective moments. Unempathetic leadership styles, such as a “Jekyll & Hyde” approach in which leaders “make up” for past indiscretions by “doing good” later, according to a fascinating HBR article by Xu et al, only serve to reduce trust between the organisation and individual. This erratic, contradictory behaviour has significant knock-on effects, from a reduced willingness to collaborate to unpredictable staff turnover due to burnout.

EI’s influence extends beyond the workplace – we can even see its impact in popular culture! Business Insider highlighted the Apple TV show Ted Lasso as a great example of how Emotional Intelligence can be a leadership superpower. In the article, consulting leader Gerald Leonard discusses how the leadership style of the titular Lasso emphasises the “importance of kindness, understanding, and building authentic connections.” It isn’t just about being nice, though! Lasso also approaches the world with curiosity and seeks to understand before reacting to situations.

We believe Emotional Intelligence is more important now than ever. The rise of AI and automation of many aspects of consulting work means human connection has become the true competitive advantage. If everyone has access to the same AI technology, it’s important to have the ability to connect with and understand others.

We have put together two articles this month discussing why Emotional Intelligence is a key skill for consultants, as well as how you can assess and enhance your level of EI.

Interestingly, it can be difficult to ensure EI training reaches the right people. Elevation Learning’s Sophia Kalpaka-Hopkins, shared some fascinating insights during our latest Elevation Learning Spotlight. Sometimes, those most in need of EI development are the least likely to seek it, so it can be helpful to shift the focus onto the tangible business and career benefits to emphasise EI’s widespread positive impact on professional success.

The truth is, we are already in the age of Emotional Intelligence. Research from TalentSmart revealed that Emotional Intelligence is already the #1 predictor of job performance. For consultants yet to invest in EI training, it could be one of the most valuable career moves you make!