"CEOは知性とビジネスの専門知識のために雇われ、感情知能の欠如のために解雇される。"

The main idea here is that CEOs often get their positions because of their brains and business know-how, but they lose their jobs because they don't know how to relate to people. It's not just about making smart decisions or having a killer resume; it's about connecting with the team, understanding their needs, and navigating the complex world of human emotions.

This wisdom was likely highlighted due to the increasing recognition of emotional intelligence (EQ) in leadership roles. In the past, companies primarily valued hard skills and technical expertise. However, as the workplace evolved, it became clear that the ability to manage one's own emotions and understand others' emotions can significantly impact a leader's success.

Think about Steve. Steve was a brilliant tech guru who invented innovative products and had a strategic vision that seemed unstoppable. He got promoted quickly and eventually became the CEO of a rapidly growing startup. On paper, he was perfect for the role. But Steve had a major blind spot: he lacked emotional intelligence. He didn't listen to his employees, dismissed their ideas, and couldn't handle stress without snapping at his team. Eventually, the company started to struggle—not because the products were bad, but because the workplace environment was toxic. Morale was low, people were leaving, and productivity plummeted. Steve was let go. His intellect and business skills were top-notch, but his inability to connect on a human level cost him his job.

Here's some practical advice. If you're aiming for a leadership position or already in one, don't just focus on the technical side of things. Work on your emotional intelligence. Start by practicing active listening. When an employee talks to you, really pay attention. Nod, make eye contact, and ask follow-up questions. It shows that you value their input. Also, learn to manage your stress. Leaders face a lot of pressure, but how you handle it can set the tone for the whole team. Take deep breaths, go for a walk, or find a stress-relief technique that works for you.

Imagine you're at a team meeting. One of your employees, Sarah, is visibly upset because her project hit a snag. Instead of dismissing her concerns and jumping straight to solutions (which might be your instinct as a problem-solver), take a moment to acknowledge her feelings. Say something like, "I can see you're frustrated, Sarah. Let's take a step back and figure this out together." This simple act of empathy can strengthen your relationship with Sarah and show the team that you genuinely care about their well-being.

Let's bring it home with a relatable story. Picture yourself at a family gathering. Your cousin, Alex, is talking about a tough situation at work. Instead of offering unsolicited advice immediately, you listen. You nod, you make empathetic comments like, "That sounds really challenging," and you wait until Alex finishes before you chime in with your thoughts. How does Alex feel? Probably heard and supported. Now, transfer that same approach to your professional interactions. It works wonders.

So, remember, being a great leader isn't just about having a sharp mind and business acumen. It's also about understanding and connecting with people. Work on your emotional intelligence, and you'll find that not only will you be a more effective leader, but you'll also create a more positive and productive work environment. And hey, you might just keep that CEO job a little longer.