Emotional Intelligence in the Workplace

I first came across the term Emotional Intelligence (EI) back in the 90’s.  It was a saviour for me because my IQ wasn’t up to many of my fast-tracking colleagues.

However, I was able to read certain situations where emotion was involved and also realised that my motivation could bring others on the journey with me.  What I lacked in IQ, I made up for in EI..  most of the time…

So, what is EI? It’s the ability to interpret and pick up on other people’s emotions, being able to recognise your own emotions and how they impact others.

Getting it right is the key to high performing individuals and teams as well as a rewarding personal life for you and those around you.  Getting it wrong?  Bull in a china shop comes to mind!!

EI is made up of a number of areas i.e. being self-aware, able to manage your own emotions in a stressful situation, being able to empathise, being able to harness your actions with your passion and having excellent social skills.

Here are a few ways you can improve your EI.

Look at yourself objectively:  How are you reacting in stressful situations, are you losing your temper, how are people reacting to you?
Look after your body and the mind will follow:  Make sure you are eating healthy, getting enough sleep, keep fit etc…
Listen:  Let others talk without interrupting them, put your own views aside and consider how they are feeling.
Stay positive:  Nip blame in the bud! Avoid drama situations, don’t dwell in the past and don’t be overcritical.
Give others a chance to shine:  Giving the credit to others will dramatically improve team dynamics and performance.

When we go through our Interim Selection Process, EI is one of the areas in which we focus.  It’s easy to pick up on, especially with questions which involve change and engagement.

We hope you find this useful.  We will put it out in a video in a couple of days.  In the meantime, DON’T SHOUT!

Thanks

Den
PS for those of you are old enough to remember here’s the youtube link to the song in our email title – I second that emotion by Diana Ross Enjoy!!