The Importance of EQ at Work
3 minute read
Did you know that most people achieve success in their careers because of their Emotional Intelligence (EQ) rather than their IQ? This initially surprised me. Like many, I assumed that technical skills were the ultimate keys to success. However, as I reflected on the most effective and admired leaders I’ve encountered throughout my career, a pattern emerged: they all possessed a strong sense of EQ.
EQ, or Emotional Intelligence, is a critical skill set that influences how we understand, manage, and express emotions—both our own and those of others. Unlike IQ, which is relatively fixed, EQ is dynamic. It's shaped by our experiences, our ability to self-reflect, and our willingness to grow.
In my career, I’ve seen how EQ can make or break leaders. I’ve worked with leaders who had incredible technical expertise (high IQ) but struggled to connect with their teams. These individuals may climb the corporate ladder based on their intellect and technical performance, but they often lack the trust, loyalty, and respect of their teams. On the other hand, leaders with high EQ naturally inspire others, foster collaboration, and create environments where employees feel valued.
What is EQ?
Emotional Intelligence is the ability to be aware of our own emotions, and those of others, in the moment, and to use that information to manage our behavior and relationships appropriately.
There are many emotional intelligence competencies and they can all be summarized into four main buckets:
Self-Awareness: The ability to understand your emotions and how they impact your thoughts and behavior.
Other Awareness: The ability to understand and empathize with the emotions and perspectives of others.
Self-Management: The ability to control your emotions and behavior, especially in stressful situations.
Relationship Management: The ability to build, maintain, and strengthen positive relationships through effective communication and collaboration.
In essence, EQ is what enables leaders to navigate complex interpersonal dynamics, foster meaningful connections, and lead with authenticity.
Why is EQ Important?
Leadership isn’t just about what you know—it’s about how you lead. Here’s why EQ matters:
Builds Trust: Leaders with high EQ are approachable, transparent, and consistent, fostering trust among their teams.
Enhances Collaboration: EQ enables leaders to manage conflicts, mediate disagreements, and ensure everyone feels heard.
Drives Engagement: Employees are more likely to feel motivated and loyal to leaders who demonstrate empathy and care.
Improves Decision-Making: EQ helps leaders consider the human element in every decision, ensuring both people and business needs are balanced.
Research shows that employees prefer working for leaders with high EQ. They are the ones who inspire, mentor, and lead with compassion—qualities that leave a lasting impact on teams and organizations.
How Can I Develop My EQ?
While some aspects of EQ come naturally to certain individuals, it is absolutely a skill you can develop. Here’s how:
Practice Self-Reflection: Regularly assess your emotional responses and identify triggers.
Seek Feedback: Ask trusted colleagues, mentors, or coaches for constructive feedback about your interactions and leadership style.
Improve Active Listening: Focus on truly understanding others rather than just responding. Practice empathy by validating others’ feelings.
Learn Conflict Resolution: Develop strategies to navigate disagreements in a way that strengthens relationships rather than damaging them.
Invest in Coaching: Work with a coach to enhance emotional intelligence.
Developing EQ takes intentional effort, but the rewards are immeasurable—not just for your career but for your overall well-being.
Having both a high IQ and EQ is the ultimate goal for any leader, but if you had to focus on one, invest in EQ. It’s the foundation of authentic, impactful leadership. Success isn’t just about being the smartest person in the room—it’s about being the person others want to follow.
