In which scenario would a leader likely exhibit emotional intelligence?

A leader exhibiting emotional intelligence demonstrates an ability to understand and manage their own emotions while also being aware of and responsive to the emotions of others. This skill is fundamental in leadership, as it fosters effective communication and builds strong relationships within a team. By recognizing their own emotional state and that of their team members, a leader can navigate interpersonal dynamics more adeptly, leading to a more cohesive and motivated work environment.

In this context, option C captures the essence of emotional intelligence, which involves self-awareness and empathy. A leader with high emotional intelligence can effectively inspire and support their team, particularly during challenging situations, by recognizing emotional cues and responding appropriately.

Other scenarios, such as ignoring emotional responses, analyzing situations without regard to feelings, or prioritizing tasks over team dynamics, demonstrate a lack of emotional intelligence. These approaches can undermine relationships, decrease team morale, and ultimately hinder organizational effectiveness. Therefore, option C is the most accurate representation of when a leader is likely to exhibit emotional intelligence.