Great Leadership is Needed in Uncertain Times

Maybe it’s all the recent headlines that have us thinking about what it takes to be a great business leader during uncertain times. Yes, great leaders must be strategic thinkers, be good at decision-making, and excel at communication. They also need to have strong financial acumen, high emotional intelligence and possess a certain level of technological savvy to succeed.

But that’s not everything.

We wanted to explore two additional essential leadership skills that don’t always make the “Top 10” lists but may be the steady hand that organizations look for when uncertainty reigns and the business environment experiences rapid changes. These skills often separate great leaders from the good ones.

1.  Cultural Intelligence (CQ)

2.  Ethical Leadership

Cultural Intelligence (CQ)

Culturally intelligent leaders create an environment where diverse perspectives are valued, leading to greater innovation and problem-solving

Cultural intelligence (CQ) is the ability to understand, adapt to, and effectively interact with people from diverse cultural backgrounds by recognizing and respecting different norms, values, and behaviors.

In today's globalized business environment, cultural intelligence (CQ) is essential for executives leading diverse teams and operating in international markets. Cultural intelligence enables leaders to understand, respect, and adapt to different cultural norms, values, and business practices. Executives with high CQ can build strong relationships across cultures, fostering collaboration and inclusivity. This skill is particularly valuable in multinational organizations, where leaders must navigate language barriers, differing work styles, and varying expectations around hierarchy and decision-making.

Culturally intelligent leaders create an environment where diverse perspectives are valued, leading to greater innovation and problem-solving. They are also more effective in negotiating deals, managing international partnerships, and expanding into new markets. By demonstrating cultural awareness and sensitivity, executives can enhance employee engagement, reduce misunderstandings, and promote a cohesive organizational culture. Ultimately, cultural intelligence strengthens leadership effectiveness in an increasingly interconnected world.

Here are some articles that we’re reading on CQ:

"The What, How and Why of Cultural Intelligence” by Marianna Pogosyan, Ph.D., Psychology Today

“Cultural Intelligence: Building Bridges, Not Fostering Stereotypes”, by Salvador Ordorica, Forbes

Ethical Leadership

Ethical leadership is the foundation of trust, integrity, and long-term organizational success

Ethical leadership is the practice of leading with integrity, fairness, and transparency, while making decisions that align with moral values, organizational principles, and the greater good.

Ethical leadership is the foundation of trust, integrity, and long-term organizational success. Executives who prioritize ethics lead by example, demonstrating honesty, transparency, and fairness in decision-making. Ethical leaders create a strong corporate culture by fostering an environment where employees feel encouraged to uphold moral and ethical standards. They ensure that their organizations operate with integrity, from fair labor practices to responsible sourcing and sustainability initiatives.

Moreover, ethical leadership enhances an organization’s reputation, building trust among employees, customers, and stakeholders. Leaders who adhere to ethical principles mitigate risks associated with scandals, legal issues, and reputational damage. They also establish clear ethical guidelines, ensuring accountability at all levels of the organization. By embedding ethical considerations into business strategies, executives not only comply with regulations but also cultivate a culture of integrity that strengthens long-term relationships and organizational sustainability.

Here are some articles we’re reading on Ethical Leadership:

“Less than 10% of CEOs are Leading Effectively, According to a New Report from The HOW Institute for Society”, The HOW Institute for Society

“Ethical Leadership in Management and Leadership”, BMC Training

A Leadership Edge?

In an uncertain business climate, people look to their leaders for additional guidance. A strong CQ and a commitment to practice Ethical Leadership may just be the edge that great leaders need to guide their organizations through the chaos and come out the other side much stronger.