Uncertain Times: Emotional-Social Intelligence and Relational Leadership Practices: A Conceptual Framework

Abstract

Over the past year, our World has experienced vast and uncertain change due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. With this rise in uncertainty, all areas of our diverse society have felt emotional stress which has impacted how manage the daily stressors of life in a pandemic are managed. Research shows that increasing Emotional-Social Intelligence (ESI) improves an individual’s ability to adapt and adjust during uncertain and difficult times. One area that has been impacted significantly is work environments and cultures. Organizational and team leadership plays a significant role in the emotional climate in the workplace. Emotionally-Socially Intelligent leaders who apply relational leadership practices influence their team and organizational culture and help to create stability and confidence during uncertain times. Growing and developing leaders with increased levels of Emotional-Social Intelligence is essential for long-term success in life and in the workplace. This manuscript is an exploration of Emotional-Social Intelligence and Relational Leadership and identifies some of the basic constructs that are important in the growth and development of leadership in organizations.