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The purpose of the current study is to determine the extent to which individuals who are being coached to develop emotional intelligence utilize these competencies in their work versus their personal lives.

Individuals, as part of a leadership development program or stand-alone executive coaching, were asked to self-report the extent to which they utilize emotional intelligence competencies in both their work and personal lives. These individuals were questioned at two time periods (Time 1N = 172; Time 2 N = 151), six months apart.

The findings overwhelmingly support that individuals report using emotional intelligence competencies more at work than in their personal lives at both times periods. There was, however, a substantial increase in those reporting utilizing emotional intelligence competencies in their personal life after participating in executive coaching.

Much research has examined the positive impacts that emotional intelligence has in the workplace. However, less research has examined its impact on individuals’ personal lives. Little to no research has examined how organizational interventions can help increase the positive impact of emotional intelligence outside of the workplace.

The current study qualitatively examined the challenges and lessons learned from Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) during the COVID-19 pandemic. The current study draws upon previous crisis leadership research to understand and classify the most important lessons learned from CEOs.

A total of 30 in-depth, structured CEO interviews were conducted with large, multi-divisional organizations across market sectors that included healthcare, automotive, steel, agriculture, logistics, distribution, banking, financial services, light manufacturing and industrial services during the COVID-19 pandemic. Three separate judges performed a content analysis, and three main themes (eleven overall lessons) emerged related to high-level leadership lessons learned through the pandemic.

The leadership lessons that emerged overwhelmingly focused on the importance of emphasizing leadership fundamentals during crisis. CEO’s shared the importance of getting “back to basics” during the pandemic. The current study presents these leadership lessons, along with insights for leadership practices and development, as well as future research. Additionally, questions for reflection are posed to stimulate current and future leaders’ growth and development.

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted leadership and organizations in an unprecedented manner. Previous research has outlined the leadership traits and behaviors needed to successfully lead through organizational crises. However, little research has examined CEO level lessons learned, focusing on learning from such crises.