As a young manager, Ranju Alex, area vice president, South Asia, Marriott International, was once told that leadership is all about relationships. Now that she has entered her 28th year in the hospitality industry, she realises how profound those words were. She lists five ways how a manager can be an effective emotional leader

1. Keep the faith: If you are a leader and do not believe in yourself, it will be impossible for you to influence and inspire others. The first step is to believe in yourself and the cause which manifests into a passion, making you a leader that others look up to. You then need to believe in your team, understand them, work with them and lead the way to success.

2. Respect to gain respect: A team always comprises a mixed bag of performers of varying calibres yet every individual should be respected for what he or she brings to the table. A leader should possess respect and sensitivity towards a diverse workforce, thereby encouraging the manifestation of individual excellence.

3. Have humble opinions: Humility is a trait that will make leaders more relatable, approachable and believable. Whilst pride is mostly about who is right, humility is about what is right. It teaches leaders to appreciate and respect the quality of their team members.

4. Put yourself in others’ shoes: Leaders with this quality understand their people’s expectations, making far more cohesive and powerful teams. It helps you connect with people better and hold hands towards a common goal.

5. Keep an eye on the ball: This is the most significant truth of leadership—focus on the outcome. People follow a leader who has a clear focus and dedication towards a common goal. A leader is created by a group of people with a common goal or aspiration and the end result should always be the prime objective.