Leading with Emotional Intelligence: Pressure, Engagement & Speaking Up

The sunshine is finally showing up, and I don’t know about you, but it’s already lifting the mood. A reminder that small shifts (like a bit of warmth or light) can have a big emotional impact — something that applies just as much to leadership and team culture.

April was a busy and fulfilling month. I worked with and delivered webinars for professionals across education, logistics, hospitality, pharma, financial services, compliance, and events — delivering EQ workshops, Emotional Capital Report (ECR) assessments, and leadership coaching and mentoring. I was also honoured to be named a finalist in the County Wexford Chamber Business Awards as a Solopreneur, recognising the values-led work I’m building.

The month also included Rotary Club of Wexford and Network Ireland Wexford events, the GreentechHQ BAASE launch, and completing my Master EQ training with RocheMartin . And amidst it all, I carved out some time over Easter to rest and take care of my own wellbeing and spend time with my family—always a work in progress, but so important.

Now, May brings exciting new projects — including EQ leadership programmes in some new companies i am engaging with in manufacturing and pharma. I’m also speaking on the WILL (Women in Learning and Leadership) network on May 13th with Rachel O Connor , aligning with leadership interview season in education. There are interviews for Network Ireland Wexford Business awards and the County Wexford Chamber Gala ball so watch this space!

Emotional Intelligence Tip: Learn to Say What Needs to Be Said

One recurring theme I’ve seen lately? People dancing around what they really want to say — at work, in teams, even with themselves.

Avoiding emotional discomfort may feel safer short-term, but it builds tension. In teams, it leads to silos. In leadership, it creates mistrust. In wellbeing, it leads to burnout.

Emotional intelligence doesn’t remove discomfort — it helps you navigate it well.

Try this:

  • Before speaking, pause and ask: Is what I want to say helpful, clear, and kind?
  • Focus on behaviour, not blame
  • Replace “You always…” with “I’ve noticed…” or “Can we explore…”

It’s not about being overly cautious — it’s about creating conversations that move things forward without doing emotional damage.

ECR Teams: Building Emotionally Intelligent Cultures

This is exactly why I’m now offering ECR Teams — the newest assessment tool from RocheMartin . It helps groups measure and develop:

  • Psychological safety – Do people feel safe to speak up?
  • Team identity – Is there shared purpose?
  • Team efficacy – Do we believe we can succeed together?

If you’re a CEO, team leader, school principal, or business owner, this tool gives clarity and action — not just feedback.

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EQ in Action: Quick Reminders for May

Here are three small but powerful EQ tips to try this month of May -Mental Health Awareness Month

  1. Notice your triggers – Emotional awareness starts with recognising what pulls you off balance
  2. Choose curiosity over criticism – Especially when dealing with team tension or resistance
  3. Check your intention – Are you reacting to feel right, or responding to move forward?

These small shifts build trust, engagement, and emotional resilience — something the Gallup State of Global Workplace 2025 report tells us is more essential than ever. With only 27% of managers engaged, and team wellbeing dropping, the message is clear: culture and connection need to be intentional.

 

Let’s Work Together

I support leaders, teams, and organisations through:

  • ECR Self & 360 assessments
  • ECR Teams reports and workshops
  • Leadership coaching and mentoring
  • EQ-based development for schools, SMEs, and corporate teams

If you’re ready to bring more emotional intelligence into your work or team, I’d love to hear from you. Visit my Services or reach out directly.

Here’s to a connected, emotionally honest, and energising May,

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