Everything on Emotional Intelligence

Emotional regulation and openness to co-creation are critical during pitches; rigid attachment to narrow solutions can alienate decision-makers with broader perspectives. Managers must view feedback as data and remain flexible to improve the outcome.

Impact: Maintaining composure and collaborative flexibility enhances relationship capital and often leads to superior solutions through collective brainstorming.

— from Middle Managers Drive Transformation Through Strategic Issue Selling · HBR On Leadership· May 20, 2026