In today’s whirlwind business world, being a successful leader requires a few essential skills – I’m afraid it’s more than just looking good in Zoom meetings.

Here’s a few of those essential skills.

Adaptability and Agility

Things are changing so fast that by the time you finish reading this sentence, there’s probably a new app or AI tool in your industry. Leaders have to be ready to pivot—kind of like doing mental yoga. So, we need to get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Volunteer for that new project that no one really understands yet, and practice letting go of plans. 

Emotional Intelligence (EQ)

Think of EQ as a “superpower” for reading the room. It’s about understanding people—even when they’re not making sense. Active listening is really important. Nod a lot, ask follow-up questions, and make eye contact – but don’t stare. 

Strategic Thinking

A good leader sees both the forest and the trees… and maybe even some squirrels. Strategic thinking means you’re the type of person who can look five steps ahead, even when things get wild. So, I take time to read up on industry trends, attend strategy workshops, and binge, occasionally,  on case studies. As an Integrator, I often hang around visionary types and try to absorb some of their magic by osmosis.

Tech Savviness

No, you don’t have to know how to write code, but you should at least be able to find the “mute” button. A solid understanding of tech is no longer optional if you’re in the leadership seat. I try and familiarize myself with the latest industry tech. And remember, “familiarize” is a fancy word for “spending at least more than a few hours one weekend pretending we know how to use that new platform until we get the hang of it.”

Resilience and Stress Management

In the business world, things get stressful. Resilience is about bouncing back like one of those little rubber stress balls we have on our desks but never ever  use.

Develop a personal stress-management routine (wine doesn’t count as a strategy, I’m afraid). Whether it’s morning runs, meditation, or “pretending not to check emails after 7 p.m.,” find what works to keep you cool under pressure.

Inclusive Leadership and Diversity Awareness

Today’s leaders need to value different perspectives and build environments where everyone feels welcome (without the mandatory “fun” icebreakers). 

Practice inclusive leadership by recognizing our biases (we all have them), and actively seek out opinions that aren’t like ours. Bonus points if you remember everyone’s name and at least 50% of their pets’ names.

Honing these skills takes time. If we are serious, we can go for courses, ask a mentor for help, and keep challenging ourselves. And keep things light—people tend to follow leaders who know how to laugh, especially at themselves. Besides, who needs to be perfect when you can just be growing, one “learning experience” at a time?