New Intelligence Leadership: why it’s more than simply EQ rebadged

In an ever-changing world, the conversation surrounding the requisite skills for leaders is quickly shifting. The old paradigms of skills-based leadership, while still useful in part, are not the basis for leadership in the future of work. The emergent conversation is around New Intelligence Leadership, but is this simply a catchy new title?

Is it just another way to describe a leader with EQ rather than skills alone?

While emotional intelligence or EQ is an important aspect of new intelligence leadership, it is not the only component. New intelligence leadership requires a more holistic approach that encompasses multiple dimensions of intelligence.

Step up your social game

Firstly, new intelligence leadership requires social intelligence, which is the ability to navigate social situations and build relationships with others. Social intelligence involves skills such as active listening, empathy, and cultural competence. Leaders with high social intelligence are able to connect with people from different backgrounds and perspectives, and to create a sense of inclusivity and diversity.

Think it through, don’t just do

Secondly, new intelligence leadership requires cognitive intelligence, which is the ability to think critically, solve problems, and make sound decisions. Cognitive intelligence involves skills such as analytical thinking, creativity, and innovation. Leaders with high cognitive intelligence are able to analyse complex data, identify patterns and trends, and develop innovative solutions to problems.

With an explosion of AI tools (ChatGPT anyone), the ability to change our way of working and shift to strategic thinking quicker is maximised. If you are a leader and not utilising AI on a daily basis as a working tool you are wasting time on areas that are cognitively draining. AI is not the elixir to your work, but in in the new leadership intelligence, it requires you to dial up strategy, creativity, analytics and innovation.

Connect beyond the task

Lastly, new intelligence leadership requires conscious intelligence, which is the ability to find meaning and purpose in one’s work and life. Conscious intelligence involves skills such as self-awareness, mindfulness, and compassion. Leaders with high conscious intelligence are able to align their personal values with their organisational goals, and to inspire and motivate their team members towards a greater sense of purpose.

While emotional intelligence is an important component of new intelligence leadership, it is just one of the dimensions. New intelligence leadership is a more holistic approach that incorporates social intelligence, cognitive intelligence, and conscious intelligence. Leaders who possess a balance of these different types of intelligence are more likely to be successful in today’s world, and certainly into the future of work.