One of the “top of the list” competencies or characteristics when hiring a CHRO is emotional intelligence. We hear this term all of the time. What is emotional intelligence? The official definition is “the capacity to be aware of, control, and express one’s emotions, and to handle interpersonal relationships judiciously and empathetically.” Most of our clients are seeking this characteristic for all of their senior executives, but most importantly in their CHRO.

The importance of having emotional intelligence during a pandemic has been heightened. We have seen how critical or “essential” the CHRO has been in helping the CEO and their senior leadership team in navigating their organizations through this crisis. They have been crisis managers on call 24/7 to ensure all employees are safe, are heard and are productive during these challenging times. Many times they are reaching out to their teams, employees and the CEO to ensure they have what they need to move the company forward. They serve as coaches, advisors, problem solvers and seeking solutions to the myriad of issues that have arisen from child care to mental health. The emotional ups and downs most people have felt over these past six months have been magnified by the isolation many employees have experienced during these uncertain economic times and loss of affiliation from missing seeing their colleagues in person. The CHRO has been required to navigate through the ups and downs and most of the time, have rarely been recognized for their leadership. It hasn’t been intentional but just assumed they would always be there to lead and support.

We encourage you to take the time to thank your HR leaders. A little recognition doesn’t cost a thing but can be a significant morale booster to them. This journey has not ended but there is light at the end of the tunnel. Reaching out, supporting and acknowledging your HR Leader and Partner will be greatly appreciated.