Why emotional intelligence matters at work
Having a certain level of emotional intelligence, or EQ, is important in all walks of life. It makes it easier to navigate relationships with all those around you, from romantic partners to colleagues. Indeed, in the workplace, there are a number of reasons to work on your EQ. From helping to further your career, to making your day-to-day life easier, practicing emotional intelligence is a must.
Intrigued? Check out this gallery to learn about the importance of emotional intelligence in the workplace.
Understand non-verbal communication
Having a high level of emotional intelligence allows you to better understand non-verbal communication. In many instances, this may allow you to handle a situation before it becomes a problem.
Be more self-aware of personal emotions
Tapping into your emotional intelligence can help you be more aware of your own emotions. You can then adjust your behavior before it becomes an issue at work.
For example, if you had a rough night on a personal level, you may make the effort to shift your focus the next day towards something more positive.
Drive efficiencies
Being empathetic and taking time to properly understand other people’s emotions can actually drive efficiency and productivity.
Further your career
Demonstrating emotional intelligence is a surefire way to advance your career. The truth of the matter is that EQ and leadership skills go hand in hand.
Encourage others
An added benefit of having a high EQ level is that it can inspire others around you to improve their own interpersonal skills.
Identify your weaknesses
If you are looking to improve your emotional intelligence, a great first place to start is to reflect on your emotional weaknesses.
Be honest with yourself and remember that no one can be great at everything. Take the time to list your weaknesses, so you can identify areas for improvement.
Review your emotional intelligence history
Take a look back at your emails and text messages, and consider whether you could have responded to someone more empathetically.
Receive feedback
If you struggle to understand your emotional tendencies, it can be a good idea to ask your family and friends for feedback.
Use the feedback you receive from family and friends to understand how others perceive you, and work out what you can do to make a positive change.
Ask for help
You could explain that you are looking to improve your communication and leadership skills, and ask whether they have any tips for doing this.
Practice daily
Improving your emotional intelligence is a marathon, not a sprint, and it is important that you practice what you learn about EQ on a regular basis.
Other tasks may involve others. For example, you may make more effort to talk to people from various walks of life each day, in order to practice EQ in the real world.
Team effort
Remember that emotional intelligence is for everyone, and that if even one person in the team has a low EQ level, it affects everyone.
