In this episode of @TheScienceofLeadership Tom Collins interviews renowned leadership and change expert Dr. Richard Boyatzis. Dr. Boyatzis shares his extensive research on leadership and change, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence and resonant leadership. He discusses his journey from engineering to psychology, the significance of relationships in leadership, and the practical steps leaders can take to foster change and resilience in their teams. Through case studies and personal anecdotes, Dr. Boyatzis illustrates how effective, resonant leadership is rooted in shared vision, compassion, and the ability to inspire others.

Dr. Boyatzis earned his bachelors in aeronautics and astronautics at MIT, then his masters and PhD in Social Psychology from Harvard. He is currently a Distinguished University Professor at Case Western Reserve. He is an international authority on emotional intelligence, leadership, and change. His groundbreaking work has shaped how we think about guiding others through change. He has won numerous awards for his work. He has published multiple New York Times bestselling books on leadership and is soon to publish his new book, The Science of Change.

Key concepts in this episode include leadership, change, emotional intelligence, resonant leadership, intentional change theory, organizational change, leadership development, Dr. Richard Boyatzis, science of change, and leadership strategies.

Takeaways

• Leadership is fundamentally about relationships, not just authority.

• Emotional intelligence plays a crucial role in effective leadership.

• Resonant leadership fosters a positive emotional climate in organizations.

• Vision and purpose are essential for motivating teams.

• Dissonant leadership can lead to disengagement and lack of innovation.

• Positive emotional contagion can inspire teams to achieve more.

• Effective leaders focus on development alongside performance.

• Engagement numbers are higher in organizations that prioritize development.

• Leaders must reflect on their own motivations to inspire others.

References

• Boyatzis, R. (2024). The Science of Change. Oxford, UK: Oxford University Press.

• Goleman, D., Boyatzis, R., & McKee, A. (2002). Primal Leadership. Boston: Harvard Business Review Press.

• Boyatzis, R. E. (2006). Intentional change theory from a complexity perspective. Journal of Management Development 25(7), 607-623.

• Boyatzis, R., & McKee, A. (2005). Resonant Leadership. Boston: Harvard Business Review Press.

• Boyatzis, R., Smith, M., & Van Oosten, E. (2019). Helping People Change. Boston: Harvard Business Review Press.

• Kotter, J. P. (1996). Leading Change. Boston: Harvard Business Review Press.