Harnessing Emotional Intelligence and AI for Effective Leadership

Happy Monday, I'm thrilled to share some valuable insights from my recent conversation with Ioanna Mantzouridou Onasi, the CEO of Dexego. Ioanna is a trailblazer in digital innovation and transformation, and our discussion offered profound perspectives on navigating the evolving landscape of AI and technology.

"We are stronger together."

Ioanna Mantzouridou Onasi - CEO, Dextego

Transitioning Leadership Styles in AI: 

We're at a pivotal point in technological evolution where shifting from a directive to an inquiry-based leadership style is imperative. Ioanna and I discussed the importance of engaging in meaningful dialogue with our teams, emphasizing the need for open-ended questions to inspire creativity and comprehensive problem-solving.

1. The Role of Empathy: Empathy is more crucial than ever in our conversations about AI. Understanding concerns about automation and job security helps create a balance between technological growth and maintaining human-centric values.
2. Self-Awareness in High-Pressure Situations: Recognizing our emotional triggers, especially in stressful scenarios, is critical to maintaining professionalism in the fast-paced tech industry. Ioanna shared how being self-aware has been crucial in her leadership journey.
3. Cognitive Reappraisal Strategies: Ioanna illustrated the power of viewing challenges as growth opportunities. This mindset shift, especially when dealing with setbacks in AI projects, fosters resilience and a positive approach to overcoming obstacles.
4. Emotional Regulation: In the face of rapid technological changes, Ioanna emphasized the importance of accepting difficult situations as realities to be strategically navigated rather than seen as defeats.
5. Techniques for Stress Management: Ioanna shared her techniques for maintaining balance, such as deep breathing and mindfulness exercises, which are particularly valuable during unexpected challenges like system failures or cybersecurity threats.
6. Acknowledging Uncontrollable Factors: Recognizing that aspects like market trends or technological limitations are beyond our control and approaching them without judgment is essential for mental clarity and strategic focus.

The Bigger Picture: Emotional Intelligence in AI and Tech

Our dialogue highlighted that emotional intelligence, effective communication, and resilience are crucial for professional success, personal growth, and fulfillment. These skills are indispensable for adapting to continuous changes and challenges in AI and technology.

As we set New Year's resolutions, it's vital to remember that change is a process. It requires acknowledging our ingrained habits and resistance to change. Embracing self-awareness, self-love, and self-compassion is fundamental to our personal and professional lives.

Looking Ahead

As we navigate AI and technology's dynamic and sometimes daunting realms, let's focus on cultivating empathy, understanding, and adaptive leadership. I invite you to join Ioanna Mantzouridou Onasi and me as we delve deeper into these essential aspects of leadership and personal development in the tech world. Stay tuned for more insights and discussions on these critical topics.

Watch the episode here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=68peOFrQ-BY&t=134s