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Communicating with Compassion: Jacinda Ardern’s Approach

Feb 242 min read

Great leadership isn’t just about making decisions and setting strategies—it’s about fostering genuine connections and understanding the people we lead. Emotionally intelligent leaders inspire trust, encourage collaboration, and guide their teams through challenges with empathy and self-awareness.


As change management consultants, we’ve seen first-hand how emotionally intelligent leadership transforms organisations. In this blog, we’ll explore real-life examples of emotionally intelligent leadership and share actionable strategies to help you lead with heart and impact.


 

What Is Emotional Intelligence in Leadership?


Emotional intelligence (EI) is the ability to understand and manage our own emotions while recognising and responding to the emotions of others. Leaders with high EI build stronger relationships, navigate conflict effectively, and create environments where teams feel valued and motivated.

Emotionally intelligent leadership revolves around five key traits:

  1. Self-awareness – Understanding our emotions and their impact on others.

  2. Self-regulation – Managing our emotions constructively, even in difficult situations.

  3. Empathy – Recognising and understanding the emotions of others.

  4. Social skills – Building strong relationships and fostering collaboration.

  5. Motivation – Staying driven and inspiring teams to achieve shared goals.


 

Communicating with Compassion: Jacinda Ardern’s Approach

As Prime Minister of New Zealand, Jacinda Ardern gained global recognition for her compassionate leadership during crises. Her transparent communication and ability to acknowledge complex emotions united the nation.


Why It Matters: Compassionate communication fosters trust and encourages open dialogue. In business, this approach helps leaders navigate difficult conversations with care and clarity.

 

Practical Tips for Cultivating Emotional Intelligence


Here are some actionable steps to enhance emotional intelligence as a leader:

1. Practice Active Listening

Truly hear what your team members are saying—both in words and emotions. Reflect on their feedback and show that their input is valued.

2. Develop Self-Awareness

Take time to reflect on your emotions and behaviours. Journaling or seeking feedback from trusted colleagues can help you understand how others perceive you.

3. Show Empathy

Put yourself in your team’s shoes. Recognise their challenges and celebrate their achievements to create a supportive environment.

4. Communicate Transparently

Be honest and clear in your communication. Acknowledge difficulties and share your vision to build trust and unity.

5. Focus on Collaboration

Foster a team-oriented mindset by encouraging open dialogue, idea sharing, and mutual respect.


 

Let’s Lead with Emotional Intelligence


Emotionally intelligent leadership is a powerful force for positive change. By leading with empathy, self-awareness, and compassion, we can build stronger teams, navigate challenges with resilience, and inspire meaningful growth

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📩 Ready to elevate your leadership journey? Our tailored coaching and workshops can help you develop emotionally intelligent leadership skills that drive real impact. Contact us today to explore how we can support you in creating a more connected, engaged, and thriving organisation.



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