In a 2011 Career Builder Survey of more than 2,600 hiring managers and human resource professionals, 71% stated they valued EQ in an employee over IQ; 75% said they were more likely to promote a highly EQ worker; and 59% claimed they’d pass up a candidate with a high IQ but low EQ. The question, then, is why companies are putting such a high premium on EQ.
1. They can handle pressure healthily
People with higher levels of EQ are more aware of their internal thermometer and therefore better able to manage their stress levels. They tend to have better-developed coping mechanisms and healthy support systems that keep working effectively even in tough situations.
2. They understand and cooperate with others
People with highly developed EQ are less defensive and more open to feedback, especially when it involves areas of improvement. Highly emotionally intelligent people have well-developed people skills that let them build relationships with a diverse range of people across many cultures and backgrounds. That’s an asset in an increasingly globalized workplace.
3. They’re good listeners
The ability to listen well and respond to others is crucial for developing strong working relationships. Because of their ability to understand others, highly emotionally intelligent people are in a better position to put their own emotions and desires aside and take others into account.
4. They’re more open to feedback
People with highly developed EQ are less defensive and more open to feedback, especially when it involves areas of improvement. Their high level of self-regard lets them look positively at areas where they can do better, rather than taking feedback personally.
5. They’re empathetic
People with high EQ are able to use their sensitivity to where others are coming from to build trust and cohesiveness. This allows teams to focus on the task at hand rather than become embroiled in internal bickering and politics. Their sensitivity to the needs of others acts as a lubricant that helps team members work together.
6. They set an example for others to follow
Highly emotionally intelligent people don’t get easily flustered when things don’t go according to plan. And their knack for getting along with others makes it more likely that others will take note and try to emulate them. That’s why high EQ is a key to influencing people in an organization regardless of official title.
7. They make more thoughtful and thorough decisions
Because of their ability to see things clearly from another’s point of view, highly emotionally intelligent people are able to make better judgments about how their decisions will impact others. Not only does this result in better decision making overall, but it also helps manage damage control when certain decisions lead to negative consequences.
People who show an enhanced ability to adapt to change, manage their emotions, and work well with a diverse range of people are already valuable in most workplaces. But with the rates of change and pressures in the workplace rising, they’ll become even more sought after than ever – and not like this!
Original Article by Harvey Deutschendorf.