Emotional intelligence in the workplace
Emotional intelligence quotient (EQ) refers to the ability to perceive, control and evaluate emotions. It is a measurable component of who we are, just as IQ is. The concept and criteria for EQ have been studied for decades. And now many experts believe that a person’s EQ may be more important than their IQ and is certainly a better predictor of success, quality of relationships, and overall happiness.
According to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report, emotional intelligence will be one of the top 10 job skills in 2020. It’s not just for senior executives. It’s necessary for success at any level in your career. If you want to get a promotion, having a strong EQ is one of the most essential skills. Let’s have a look why recruiters prefer highly emotionally intelligent candidates.
Highly emotionally intelligent candidates can handle pressure healthily
An ability to manage our emotions is crucial as it helps to deal with pressures at work and functioning well under stress. People with a higher level of EQ are more aware of their feeling inside and thus better able to manage their stress levels. They usually have better-developed adaptation to environmental stress systems that keep functioning even in tough conditions. The fast-changing environment at work is likely to increase work-related stress and increase the value of those who can manage it.
Social or interpersonal skills
These skills enable us to communicate appropriately and build stronger, more meaningful relationships. Emotional intelligence includes how we understand others and their emotions, and our actions and behaviours towards them. As teamwork becomes very important in the workplace people with highly developed interpersonal skills are more desired.
Empathy
Empathy is the ability to understand and respond appropriately to the emotions of other people. People with highly developed EQ try to find out more about other people and what they are feeling. They also use feedback to clarify that they have correctly understood humans’ feelings. Their sensitivity to the needs of others acts as a lubricant that helps team members work together.
Better and more thoughtful decisions
Highly emotionally intelligent people can make dramatically better decisions. The reason is that such people have a highly developed observing ego. An observing ego is the part of our brain that lets us observe what we are feeling objectively, without having to react to it. Think of it as an out-of-body experience with our emotions. Simply put, it’s an ability to see things clearly from different points of view.
For emotional intelligence to be effective, it has to start with yourself. Developing emotional intelligence takes time and commitment, but having a strong EQ is now a necessary quality for career success. Honest insight into your situation is the best start you can make to changing your emotional addictions and freeing yourself to have a better, happier work life.
Please register with edenfx HSE Recruitment www.edenfx.co.nz for job opportunities. We look forward to working with you.