How Emotional Intelligence Helps Local Government Teams

In a recent LeaderGov workshop on Emotional Intelligence, leaders shared their perspective and best practices on effectively addressing their own emotions as well as emotional situations on their teams. 

Underlying the leaders’ answers was a desire to improve their skill and the skills of their teams to address tension and emotion.   LeaderGov recommended several tools to learn and grow EI for their teams including:

• Emotional Intelligence 2.0 Book Club
• Ted Talks
• LeaderGov’s EI Team Workshop
• LeaderGov’s Team EI Survey
• Team Discussion about EI
• Have individuals complete the free IHHP Assessment & MindTools EI Assessment

The workshop started by asking the local government leaders why they or their leadership teams sometimes do not lean into emotional situations at work.  Leaders responded with the following ideas.

1. Fear of conflict or confrontation.
2. Lack of confidence in handling emotional situations effectively.
3. Concern about making a situation worse.
4. Belief that staying stoic is seen as stronger.
5. Worry about potential legal repercussions.
6. Discomfort with emotional intelligence or personal issues at work.
7. Perception that emotions should not mix with professionalism.
8. Fear of being accused of inappropriate behavior or favoritism.
9. Preference to avoid drama or high-tension situations.
10. Lack of support from HR in addressing poor behavior.

In the workshop, LeaderGov asked local government leaders how they deal with their own emotions when stress and tensions rise.  Below is a summary of their top answers.

1. Take a break to breathe and regroup.
2. Practice mindfulness, such as meditation or deep breathing.
3. Walk away from the situation or take a short walk outside.
4. Delay a response to give time for emotions to settle.
5. Use positive self-reflection or think of things they are grateful for.
6. Seek alternative perspectives or a second opinion.
7. Engage in physical activities like going to the gym or doing yoga.
8. Write down thoughts or frustrations but don’t immediately act on them.
9. Listen to music or engage in activities that clear the mind.
10. Practice the "pause" to ensure a more thoughtful and measured response.

In the workshop, LeaderGov also asked local government leaders how they interact with team members' emotions when as they emerge and potentially cause team disruption.

1. Actively listen to understand all perspectives before responding.
2. Encourage open communication by asking clarifying questions like "tell me more."
3. Maintain a calm and neutral tone to help de-escalate the situation.
4. Acknowledge and respect everyone's frustrations and emotions.
5. Separate individuals if needed and address the issue later when emotions have settled.
6. Use humor cautiously to lighten the mood, ensuring it’s appropriate for the situation.
7. Create a safe space for open dialogue, sometimes by meeting in a neutral location.
8. Ensure everyone has a chance to voice their concerns without interruption.
9. Focus on facts over feelings and steer the conversation toward common ground.
10. Recap discussions to ensure understanding and avoid misunderstandings.

Your local government retreat, local government strategic planning and team interpersonal relationships will benefit from stronger EI skills.  If your local government has need for emotional intelligence training and skill development, email us at [email protected].