Emotional Intelligence in the Workplace: Why It Matters

The term “Emotional Intelligence” means different things to different people, but no matter the definition of what the term means in the real world and how it plays out in people’s lives has become an important part of modern culture. I contend that the integration of EI alongside such mainstream competencies like technical skills and business acumen is essential for industry leaders and employees alike. Take businesses who are looking toward a more humanized, customer-centered approach in the digital age. Their goal is to provide exceptional customer service, to stand out and above the throngs of competitors with similar offerings.

"As we mechanize errands and trust machines to assume control over obligations, emotional intelligence is what differentiates us from robotic algorithms; the human capacity to perceive feelings in ourselves as well as other people, to comprehend their impact, and to utilize that learning to direct our thoughts and practices."

What Is Emotional Intelligence?

I explain simply that a person with high EI can observe the emotional state of themselves and others around them to appropriately guide behavior. The term was coined by psychologist Daniel Goleman in his book ‘Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ,’ in which he redefines intelligence. In the book, Goleman lays out five key principles of emotional intelligence:

1. Self-awareness: We are aware of our capabilities and strengths which we can utilize to benefit ourselves and others. We are also aware of our weaknesses that may need to be addressed. By looking inwardly, we learn more about how we react and behave to circumstances and what we need to change.
2. Self-regulation: The ability to effectively manage our emotions and oppressive feelings that prevent us from reaching our goals. When we become self-aware, we more effectively manage our emotions.
3. Motivation: Emotionally intelligent people tend to be motivated to achieve greater things and rise above the face of failure. They are more likely to improve themselves and their position, this is especially important for an employee.
4. Empathy: Being empathetic means that you put yourself in someone else’s shoes and understand their position. Displaying empathy will help form deeper connections with other people which will produce healthy work relationships.
5. Social skills: Emotionally intelligent people decipher situations and respond appropriately, suggesting these individuals have strong social skills. This will help improve corporate communication and culture.

IQ vs EQ?

While IQ is well understood stressed heavily in typical businesses, my little commentary on the five points above gives a window to peer into how EI can play a crucial role in the development of a model employee. While there is a certain IQ level required to fulfill a job role, which can be proved through the attainment of degrees, certificates and pre-screening tests, the EQ level (Emotional Intelligence Quotient) can vary substantially. While corporate training programs typically focus on bolstering the IQ requirement, the acquisition of a job or promotion is often determined by emotional intelligence.

How to Improve Your Emotional Intelligence

Just reading about EI, knowing it’s there, and starting to recognize that you have an intelligence rating when it comes to emotions is a great step. And though emotional intelligence begins in childhood, it’s not too late to develop it as you get older. Here some other things you can do:

• Be mindful: Be mindful of how you react to certain situations and people. Had a bossy customer? What made it so bad, and what can you do next time? Reflect on the emotions you feel that cause you to react in this way. Becoming aware of your emotions is an important stepping stone to managing them.
• Identify your stressors: Everyone has them, whether it’s the traffic into work or checking your email before bed. If you know it’s going to have a negative impact on you, try to find a way to avoid it or see the best side of the situation. How can you lighten the load? What proactive steps can you take to eliminate or reduce the impact of these stressors?
• Ask for perspective: What we see as true is often quite different from what people around us are seeing. Others can tell you a great deal about yourself and how you react to things. Start getting input from others on how you deal with emotionally havocking situations.
• Take a breather: Stop and think before you act. It's difficult to do yet continue working at it and it will become easier.
• Practice empathy: Try to understand the reasoning behind one’s actions. Walk-in their shoes and take a moment to focus on their issues. This does not mean you must excuse unacceptable behavior, but it may help you to react with greater regard for the individual in question.
• Learn from criticism: When you learn from criticism and choose to use it for empowering purposes, you let go of the negativity attached to it. Rather than defending ourselves, we should at least consider if we can take that criticism and grow in emotional intelligence. The question is, can you improve from it?

Did you try any of these? Did they work? Have any other tips on how others can improve their EI? Let me know.