Is your EQ and high as your IQ?

Book smart and people stupid. We’ve all seen intelligent people who are blind to what those around them are thinking or feeling, or who want to control others but can’t control their own emotions.

I’ve been that person too. I can recall times in my career when I failed to connect with people, to effectively describe my position to others and to provide feedback in a constructive way. I knew what to do, but I lacked the emotional intelligence that would show me how to accomplish it.

Fortunately, my job as an editor and writer has allowed me to study what makes people effective at work, particularly as leaders. Throughout the years I put the pieces together. During an education conference I first heard a description of Howard Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences, which include interpersonal and intrapersonal abilities. Later, Daniel Goleman’s book Emotional Intelligence shook up the thinking of business leaders.

By applying what I’ve learned, I’ve been able to raise my “E.Q.,” my Emotional Quotient, and I’ve seen a dramatic difference in my work and personal life. Today I can recognize the emotional components in difficult situations and use that insight to resolve them. I’ve learned how to tailor how I communicate to different people and to understand better what they are trying to tell me. I have better control of my own emotions, which allows me to navigate stressful situations more effectively. And by taking the time to understand other people’s perspectives, I’ve become more comfortable handling a range of situations, from negotiations to awkward social moments.

It literally took me years to develop my emotional intelligence, and that’s not a luxury that today’s managers and leaders have. Without adequate emotional intelligence in the workplace, you can’t effectively lead a team, engage and motivate employees, or build the relationships that are crucial to success. Conflicts will distract you from your goals and gobble your time.

Fortunately, there’s now a fast track to raising your E.Q., the two-day Emotional Intelligence Training Camp. Presenter Chuck Wolfe guides you through exercises that explain what emotionally intelligent leadership is and how you can apply it in your workplace.

Sign up today for the Emotional Intelligence Training Camp in Las Vegas, Dec. 10-11, 2012, to take advantage of the early bird discount.

How have you seen emotional intelligence—or lack of it—make a difference at work?

[Image Source: Frits Ahlefeldt-Laurvig]

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