By Sam Robinson
Emotional intelligence has long been hailed as the secret sauce for effective leadership. But in 2025, it’s harder – and more necessary – than ever, especially for those leading in the operational trenches of Australia’s heavy industry.
Why harder? Two reasons: complexity and fatigue.
Operational teams are facing increased automation, tighter compliance, and relentless change. When a team leader in regional Victoria has to shift between coaching apprentices, managing new digital workflows, and navigating safety briefings, the cognitive load is huge. Emotional bandwidth runs thin.
There’s also post-COVID fatigue. Many leaders – especially those who’ve stuck it out – are tired. They’ve been holding space for teams through uncertainty for years. That takes a toll. As a leader, you’re expected to be calm, caring, and consistent – but you’re running on empty.
So what helps?
Micro-reflection. One supervisor uses the walk from the depot car park to the control room to ask himself three questions: “What does my team need from me today? How do I feel? Who needs my full attention?” Five minutes of intention can make the difference between reacting and responding.
Also, peer support. At one of our clients, a monthly “leadership lunch” is held – no slides, no KPIs. Just honest conversation about what’s hard and what’s working. That shared space builds resilience.
Emotional intelligence isn’t soft. It’s operationally critical – and worth investing in more than ever.
At LKS Quaero, we help our clients to usefully apply emotional intelligence. For more information, visit us at lksquaero.com or follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook.
