In the workplace, we are often confronted with a variety of challenges that test not only our technical competency but also our emotional resilience. So why is emotional intelligence important in the workplace?
Well, let us explore this question in greater detail.
Emotional Intelligence at Work
Emotional intelligence—often referred to as EI or EQ (Emotional Quotient)—is the ability to understand the impact of emotions on individuals and situations, as well as the capacity to respond appropriately.
Within a workplace setting, EI translates into managers and employees being able to demonstrate a commitment to the personal well-being of themselves and their team. It underscores the importance of well-being as a crucial element of the workplace environment while fostering healthier interpersonal relationships. Successful managers, leaders and employees exhibit EI through key traits, including self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and strong social skills.
Inherently more than just a ‘nice to have’ characteristic, emotional intelligence is often recognised as a driving factor in business success and profitability - according to numerous studies. Leaders who exhibit empathetic and compassionate qualities are also shown to have a greater influence on organisational productivity. Moreover, studies indicate that emotional intelligence is a distinct predictor of an employee’s potential to perform well and succeed in their role.
But what exactly does emotional intelligence (or EQ) bring to the proverbial table?
Better Communication
For starters, emotionally intelligent individuals tend to be better communicators, and effective communication is essential for a strong workforce. To illustrate this point effectively, let’s examine the scenario below:
An employee is tasked with leading a presentation in front of their colleagues, and they feel nervous about it. During the presentation, they allow their anxious impulses to take over, resulting in a flustered and incoherent delivery that undermines their ability to convey important information.
While feeling nervous or apprehensive before a high-pressure situation is completely normal, an emotionally intelligent individual would recognise these feelings and employ strategies to manage their nerves and stay in control.
High-EQ individuals also tend to handle conflict and negative emotions more effectively. For instance, if an employee feels that management has not acknowledged their contributions to a project's success, they may feel aggrieved. In response, they might lash out with passive-aggressive comments or a particularly abrupt email. However, this behaviour is likely to trigger a negative reaction from others and, potentially, cause damage to working relationships.
An emotionally intelligent response would involve the employee recognising and assessing their feelings before acting on them. By maintaining composure and clear-headedness, they can thoughtfully consider the best course of action. This even-tempered approach is far more likely to produce positive results while maintaining pleasant working relationships.
Improved Teamwork
As we have already established, strong communication, amongst other vital
soft skills, is central to a good working relationship. Regardless of station, emotional intelligence can help lay the foundations for a much more productive and cohesive working environment.
Individuals who may be of a low EQ might struggle to work as part of a team. They may exhibit poor listening skills, engage in arguments, or refuse to take accountability for their errors. Such actions can disrupt the harmony of a team - undermining trust and communication as well as workplace morale.
Those with higher emotional intelligence respect others' ideas and feelings, even when they disagree. This openness fosters collaboration and allows them to express their views without resorting to dismissive or confrontational behaviours.
Career Prospects
A study by
TalentSmart revealed a strong correlation between high emotional intelligence and significant financial benefits. The study, conducted on 42,000 people, found that on average individuals with high emotional intelligence earn $29,000 more per year than those with lower emotional intelligence. This finding, while not absolute, highlights the notable influence that EI plays in enhancing one’s career prospects and financial success.
Leadership and Motivation
Emotionally intelligent employees often possess strong abilities to empathise, self-regulate, and outperform. These respectable qualities enable them to be effective leaders – leaders who can motivate themselves and their teams. Emotionally intelligent managers and leaders naturally foster behaviours within teams that prioritise staff well-being. By modelling these practices, they not only create a supportive work environment but also help colleagues develop their emotional intelligence.
Despite the acknowledged importance of EI, and of soft skills as a whole, a
Lee Hecht Harrison Penna survey reveals a notable gap in organisational practices: 68% of organisations claimed not to have the specific tools or systems to identify or enhance employee emotional intelligence.
What exactly can businesses do to bridge the EI gap?
Emotional Intelligence Training
Integrating emotional intelligence training into a company’s development plan can significantly enhance employee performance, foster team cohesiveness, and nurture the emergence of prospective leaders.
Here are 2 examples of strategies to help develop EI skills in the workplace:
1. Structured Programs
Workshops and Courses: Explore regular
EI training workshops or EQ courses focused on strengthening key areas such as self-awareness, empathy, and conflict resolution.
Online Learning Modules: Provide access to online training courses that employees can complete at their own pace.
2. Coaching and Mentorship
One-on-One Coaching: Pairing employees with an emotional intelligence training specialist to provide personalised guidance and support.
Leadership and Mentorship Programs: Establish mentor or leadership relationships where experienced employees can share their EI skills and experiences with newer colleagues.
Emotional intelligence is a lifetime practice with endless opportunities for learning and growth. It serves as a foundation for personal and professional success, enabling individuals, at all levels, to effectively navigate the nuances of workplace dynamics.
Are you seeking a specialist course on
emotional intelligence training? Or maybe you want to enhance your other soft skills?
Well, check out our dedicated courses at Redcliffe Training. Our comprehensive courses are designed to provide you with the tools and insights you need to thrive. Level up your leadership skills and enrol today!