Leaders need to have emotional intelligence to recognise equality, diversity and inclusion within the workforce, writes Laboratory Manager Francis Yongblah, member of the IBMS Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Working Group.
Emotional intelligence (EI) is described as an individual’s ability to read and understand others in social context, to detect the nuances of emotional reactions, and to utilise such knowledge to influence others through emotional regulation and control. EI is also described as an individual being able to manage their own emotions and empathise with those around them, allowing them to strengthen relationships and grow as an individual. EI has also been described as the ability to communicate and be able to relate with others effectively and constructively. It is having the ability to perceive, interpret, demonstrate, and control.
Why is it important for leaders in healthcare science to have EI?
EI is an important tool for leaders within healthcare science today, particularly with constant change and challenges within the NHS and healthcare. Personal life outside of the laboratory can affect different members at different levels within a team. EI is
key for representing what is a critically important competency for effective leadership and team performance in organisations today. Leaders with EI are also able to empower their teams, which can lead to improvements within the workplace. It is all too common that a leader or manager doesn’t know what is happening on the shop floor. Therefore, it really is key for there to be engagement between leadership/managers and their team in order for there to be a voice for the team.
EI for recognising and supporting equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI)
Today there is a vast workforce of people from diverse backgrounds. With diversity comes perspectives and experience. It is essential that all groups can be fairly represented and supported by their managers and leaders. This includes representation for sex, age, race, sexuality, disability etc. Having EI as a leadership tool will allow senior scientists and team leaders to be able to support their team members and get the best out of them.
There are a few ways that leaders can embed EI within their everyday management and leadership to ensure that all team members are represented:
- Listen to your colleagues and put yourself in their shoes
- Spend time reflecting on yourself and your motivations
- Don’t shy away from social engagements inside and outside of work
- Be supportive, even if it’s not in your job description
- Treat your emotional health like your physical health.
Within the healthcare science professional, it is key that there are more emotionally intelligent leaders. These are leaders who are not afraid to be honest about themselves and show empathy to others. This is particularly important with EDI within the workforce to be able to recognise and support EDI ensuring all members of staff within a team have equal and fair opportunities as well as getting the necessary support and representation needed. EI will have a positive impact on team outcomes and in turn will allow for better outcome for patients.
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