Emotional Intelligence In The Workplace

The short answer is yes. Emotional intelligence, also known as Emotional Quotient (EQ), is the ability to perceive, evaluate, and control emotions. This ability is crucial for building and maintaining interpersonal relationships and can be helpful in the workplace setting.

Why EQ matters

The concept of emotional intelligence was first brought up back in 1995 by psychologist Daniel Goleman in his book “Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ.” He points out that emotional intelligence was critical for success and plays a crucial role in the workplace. He also suggested that while traditional intelligence is associated with being a successful leader, it wasn’t enough. Great leaders also possess emotional intelligence.

Researchers would further suggest that being emotionally intelligent influences how well employers interact with their employees and build good work relationships. Furthermore, emotional intelligence plays a part in stress and conflict management, affecting job performance and job satisfaction.

Even hiring managers recognise the importance of emotionally intelligent staff, as shown in a survey wherein 75% of participants suggested that they value an employee’s EQ more than IQ. It’s a valuable skill that improves communication, management, and problem-solving. More importantly, people with high EQ exhibit composure under pressure, make better decisions, are good at resolving conflicts, have greater empathy, and respond well to criticism.

Elements of Emotional Intelligence

Goleman also writes in his book that emotional intelligence has five elements that can help leaders attain a higher level of EQ. So if you want to be an effective leader, improving or developing these emotional skills is crucial.

Self-awareness

Utilising emotional intelligence in the workplace would involve being aware of your own emotions. Being self-aware helps you understand your feelings and be mindful of how your actions and emotions affect those around you. By being self-aware of your own emotions, you’ll start to take stock of your emotional strengths and weaknesses. And it would do well to remember that emotions are fleeting so as not to make impulsive decisions.

Self-regulation

Self-regulation is another essential element of emotional intelligence. Being self-aware is not enough; managing emotions is also crucial. People who have good self-regulation can adapt well to changing situations and can keep a cool head. Developing this skill would help to find ways to relieve workplace stress and to think carefully before making decisions.

Empathy

Empathy is the ability to understand another person’s feelings. More than understanding, empathy also involves how you might respond to the other person’s emotions. In the workplace, this skill allows you to understand the dynamics between your coworkers and between colleagues and supervisors. To be more empathetic, you must put yourself in the other person’s shoes, see things from their perspective, and pay attention to how you respond to others.

Motivation

Emotionally intelligent people are intrinsically motivated, seeking rewards greater than fame or money. Instead, their passion stems from the satisfaction of fulfilling their own goals and needs. Usually, motivated people in the workplace are committed to their work and love a good challenge. Often, this enthusiasm is contagious, and they tend to inspire their colleagues to work hard. Maintaining your motivation can be challenging, but having a positive outlook and focusing on what you love about work can keep you motivated.

Social skills

Because people with a high EQ are adept at recognizing people’s emotions, they also possess strong social skills because they know how to respond appropriately to any situation. Good social skills are valuable in the workplace because it leads to better communication. A leader who can effectively communicate can build a good rapport with their employees. So if you want to improve your social skills in the workplace, start by being a good listener and be receptive to nonverbal communication cues. Honing your persuasion skills are also beneficial in influencing your team.

Now more than ever, leaders need to be intelligent both intellectually and emotionally. They would need the smarts to drive their company to success and the heart to guide themself and their team to accomplish their goals.

Is emotional intelligence an essential skill you look for in your team? Get in touch with one of the best IT Job Consultancies in Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra, Adelaide and Brisbane by emailing office@redwolfrosch.com.au or calling 1300 544 652.