5 ways to show emotional Intelligence in the workplace
Emotional Intelligence (also known as EQ) is the capacity to be aware of, control, and express one’s emotions. It is also the ability to handle interpersonal relationships judiciously and empathetically. It is critical in the workplace because it helps foster a harmonious environment while the lack of it can easily lead to misunderstanding and issues. (Google Dictionary)
Who is an emotionally intelligent person?
In the book ‘Emotional Intelligence’ by psychologist Daniel Goleman, he lists out five (5) components of emotional intelligence in the workplace. Self-awareness, empathy, self-regulation, motivation, and having the necessary social skills. Once a person has these skills, we can call them an emotionally intelligent person.
Self-awareness means that you understand your emotions and know how they can affect people around you as well as the work you do. It also means that you know your strengths and weaknesses and how they can affect your output. For example, Janet knows that she isn’t the most effective communicator, and she understands that to be efficient at her job as a sales associate, she needs to improve on this. Therefore she begins to take classes on public speaking, writing, and editing.
Understanding your emotions is one thing, knowing how to manage them is another. Emotionally intelligent people are self-regulators, they understand that as emotional beings we often make decisions and assumptions based on our emotions. Therefore, being emotional, even in the workplace is only natural. However, emotionally intelligent people work to manage their emotions thereby helping to sustain a safe and balanced work environment. As an employer, this is critical because it prevents you from imposing your biases on your employees.
Empathy is understanding the emotions of others and having the capacity to put yourself in their position. It is key to being able to effectively lead a team. As employers and employees, being empathetic can show up in the way you treat those around you. Do you listen to them? Are you professional? Do you judge them too quickly? An empathetic employer is more likely to choose and retain quality talent.
How excited are you about your work? Motivation is being driven and productive even without external forces such as salaries, promotions etc. It shows by how well you tackle challenges in the workplace. Motivated people are optimistic and have a desire to achieve.
How well all of these skills come together shows up in your social skills. How good are you with working in teams? Are you proficient at building networks and managing relationships? As an employer or employee, you would need to communicate effectively with colleagues, buyers, suppliers, etc. How well you relate with all these stakeholders can determine the success of your business.
Emotional Intelligence isn’t just necessary for senior executives in any organization, it is important at any level in any organizational structure. Emotional Intelligent teams help to promote productivity in the workplace.
