The most effective CEOs have an uncanny ability to “hear between the lines.”

They are always one step ahead and understand the importance of motivation and inspiration in their leadership role.The most effective CEOs have an uncanny ability to “hear between the lines.” They are always one step ahead and understand the importance of motivation and inspiration in their leadership role.

One company that is blessed with exemplary leadership is Chick-fil-A.  Truett Cathy built his $3 billion company by leveraging his first-rate instincts, staying true to himself and Biblical principles. Truett factored in various marketplace observations to make timely decisions and take timely action. His inventing of the chicken sandwich and the loyal, deep-bench team he has built inside the company exemplifies his keen emotional intelligence and his resolute belief that companies don’t fail, people do.

In the book How Did You Do It Truett, there are many examples of the CEO’s emotional intelligence at work. But it’s Perry Ragsdale, senior vice president of construction for Chick-fil-A, who sums it best when he says, “Truett hears between the lines. We’re talking about different aspects of business and his questions show remarkable insight about where we are and where we are going. He sees through to the reasons about why things are happening and brings a unique business insight.”

Hear between the lines.

These four words sum up what it means to be a leader who fully capitalizes on his or her emotional intelligence.