What do you do if your emotional intelligence is lacking when engaging with senior stakeholders?

In my experience having self-awareness helps when dealing with stakeholders, remain calm and in the moment, we all want some sort of outcome. Often people have a pre-determined outcome in mind, that inhibits their ability to stayed focused, and be in the moment. Remember what you think they want and what they want might be different. Your subjective world view does not always match the real view of the world, as it is molded by past experience, and in many cases limiting beliefs that can hold you back. Listen, with the intention to understand, don't listen with the intention to answer. The way you see the world from your subjective reality has an impact on stakeholder engagement.

Kickstart with 'What's on your mind?',then the A.W.E. question 'And what else?', next 'Tell me more?', ahead the focus question' What's the real challenge here for you?', repeat the focus question! Then foundation question'How can I help?' Next 'What do you want to do?' The strategic question' If you are saying yes to this, then what are you saying no to?'! STRATEGY is having a CHOICE : naming that choice, understanding the criteria for that choice to be REAL & taking ownership of the consequences of going ahead with that CHOICE. The learning question - What was the most useful or most valuable about this for you? Also more most part stay silent to enable active, attentive & focused listening.It's about being & staying curious a bit longer!

One of the ways to get started is by; Improve Constantly: Understanding that developing one's emotional intelligence is a continuous process is good. So, you can achieve your long-term objective by monitoring your development and modifying it as necessary. How can we do this? 1. Consistent Practice 2. Take advantage of learning opportunities such as workshops, seminars, or online courses. 3. Actively seek feedback from trusted colleagues, mentors, or coaches. 4. Celebrate small victories and milestones along your EI development journey to stay motivated and encouraged to continue your growth. 5. Lastly, surround yourself with a supportive network of individuals who encourage and uplift you in your EI development efforts.

When it comes to communicating with senior stakeholders, I've found that practicing empathy and active listening has changed everything. By placing myself in their position and making an effort to comprehend their viewpoint, requirements, and worries, I've been able to strengthen my bonds with them and cultivate their respect and trust. In these exchanges, active listening in particular has been quite helpful. I show my sincere interest and dedication to comprehending their point of view by paying close attention, posing intelligent questions, and responding to what I hear. By following these procedures, I've discovered that I can more accurately predict their requirements, and modify my strategy accordingly

Continuously building my EI has truly helped me to modify my communication style when I interact with different senior citizens. To find out what style of communication they prefer—whether they want the straight scoop or a more casual conversation—I use tools like DISC and Myers-Briggs. For instance, if someone is only interested in statistics and data, I provide them with the essential details. However, I make sure to inject some personality into our talks if they're more interested in developing relationships. My interactions flow more naturally and we make stronger connections when I adapt my style to suit their preferences. It all comes down to meeting them halfway and recognizing their perspective.

Senior stakeholders are involved in business for different reasons. Listening to what the stakeholders value should always guide EI. It's the presenter's responsibility to be able to adapt to the needs of the room and show up prepared.