Leading with Heart: Emotional Intelligence for Founders Working in a Second Language
Running a tech startup is tough. Running one in a language that’s not your first adds a whole new layer of complexity.
I’ve worked with founders from around the world who tell me that expressing emotions, reading their team’s feelings, and handling tough conversations in English can feel overwhelming. When you're working in a second language, emotional intelligence isn’t optional — it’s essential.
It’s not just about what you say. It’s about how well you read the room, respond to emotions, and keep conversations moving in the right direction. That’s what builds trust, helps you solve problems faster, and keeps your team motivated.
Why Emotional Intelligence Matters for Founders
Emotional intelligence (EQ) helps you stay connected — to your team, your vision, and yourself. It’s what allows you to lead through uncertainty, make better decisions, and build a culture people want to be part of.
For startup founders, EQ often matters more than technical expertise. Investors know it. Your team feels it. And it becomes even more important when you’re leading in your second language.
The Extra Hurdles When English Isn’t Your First Language
Leading in English means you might:
Miss emotional cues like tone or body language
Struggle to express empathy or give feedback clearly
Avoid difficult conversations because you're afraid of being misunderstood
Face cultural differences in how emotions are shown or interpreted
That’s why building emotional intelligence in English is such a valuable skill.
How to Build EQ as a Non-Native English-Speaking Founder
1. Listen actively.
Don’t just hear the words. Notice how things are said and what’s not being said. Repeat or summarize to confirm what you heard.
2. Ask questions that open up conversation.
Try: “How are you feeling about this?” or “What’s been challenging here?” These questions show empathy and invite honest answers.
3. Keep your language simple.
Especially during emotional conversations, clear language creates safety. Say things like “I want to check in on how you’re feeling” instead of using idioms or complex phrases.
4. Be patient — with yourself and others.
EQ takes time to build, and it takes even longer when you’re doing it in a second language. Progress is still progress.
5. Learn how emotions show up across cultures.
Different cultures have different “emotional rules.” Learning how your team members express frustration, excitement, or concern helps you respond with empathy.
6. Check in with your own emotions.
Self-awareness is the foundation of EQ. Notice how you're feeling before you walk into a meeting or respond to a tense email. It makes a difference.
You don’t need perfect English to be an emotionally intelligent leader. What you need is a willingness to connect, to listen, and to lead with empathy.
When you focus on emotional intelligence, your communication becomes clearer, your team becomes stronger, and your impact grows.
What’s been your biggest challenge leading in English? I’d love to hear.
Until next time,
Jenn