Why Emotional Intelligence is the New Leadership Edge

Emotional intelligence in leadership isn’t optional anymore - it’s your edge. In this episode of Leading You, I sit down with emotional intelligence expert, speaker, and author Amy Jacob to unpack what EQ really looks like in today’s high-performing, fast-moving workplaces. We explore why emotional intelligence is no longer just a “soft skill”- it’s a critical leadership advantage. From navigating difficult conversations to building trust and team culture, EQ is the key to leading with clarity, confidence and connection. Amy shares a powerful 5-step framework for high-stakes conversations, how to stop over-preparing and start connecting, and what leaders can do today to improve emotional agility and self-awareness. Whether you're avoiding tough conversations, reacting under pressure, or simply want to be a more effective and human leader, this episode delivers real tools for lasting impact. What we cover in this episode: Why emotional intelligence is the new competitive edge in leadership How EQ transforms team performance, trust, and culture The biggest reason leaders avoid hard conversations Amy’s 5-step strategy for leading with clarity under pressure How your emotional wiring impacts your leadership style The link between EQ and self-leadership What emotionally intelligent leadership looks like in action Simple mindset shifts to lead more effectively today   Episode Timestamps 00:00 – Meet Amy Jacob: Emotional intelligence expert and author 01:00 – Why emotional intelligence is the new leadership edge 03:45 – The real reason leaders avoid hard conversations 05:30 – EQ’s impact on team trust, culture and performance 07:20 – Amy’s 5-step framework for emotionally intelligent conversations 10:00 – When over-preparing becomes a leadership liability 13:00 – Understanding emotional wiring and self-leadership 15:30 – Real-world examples of EQ in high-performing teams 18:00 – One small mindset shift that boosts EQ EQ starts with you. And it starts now. Tune in now to build trust, deepen connection, and lead with emotional agility.   Links: Join the Lead.Her Collective Dinner Series Get the Clarity Compass Mini Program Connect with Julie: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-hyde/ Instagram: @juliehydeleads Website: https://juliehyde.com.au Connect with Amy: Website: https://amyjacobson.com.au/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amyjacobson_ei LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/finding-your-y/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.