The following is a short book preview contributed by the Ohio State University Leadership Center.

From: Steve Saccone, Relational Intelligence: How Leaders Can Expand Their Influence Through a New Way of Being Smart. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass (2009).

Likeability is a fundamental characteristic of relational intelligence, and we tend to underestimate its effect on our leadership endeavors and everyday lives. Contrary to what some people think, likeability is not about trying to become a professional people-pleaser, or trying to be all things to all people. What makes likeable people relationally intelligent is revealed in a person’s ability to evoke favorable feelings in their “audience” (that is, the person they’re in relationship with), in order to produce a positive outcome that serves others well. Whether people are leading a team at work, at a party with friends, or living their ordinary day-to-day lives, what likeable people do best is establish authentic connections with people that make others feel valued and cared about (Saccone, p. 150).

Relational Intelligence is available on loan from the Ohio State University Leadership Center. To borrow this resource or any other resource, please go to the resource search page.

Click here to learn how the Ohio State University Leadership Center is strengthening tomorrow’s leaders today.

The OSU Leadership Center is home to a wealth of resources to help you and the people you work with improve your leadership and interpersonal skills. Please check the materials in our Lending Library (available to you for a small annual fee), Leadership Publications (absolutely free), and links to other leadership-related information.

View Jim Canterucci's Profile      Subscribe via RSS