Aug
23
2018
5 benefits of Emotional intelligence
Emotional intelligence has been popular in the business world since 1995, and although 23 years have passed it still plays a huge role in successful businesses. Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon, is a big fan of Emotional intelligence, and has used it in the past to handle criticisms of working conditions. Ursula Burns, the first black woman CEO to head a Fortune 500 company, also uses this skill in her work to inspire and motivate teams.
What is Emotional intelligence?
Well, Google says it’s “the capacity to be aware of, control, and express one’s emotions, and to handle interpersonal relationships judiciously and empathetically.”
What this essentially means is that Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognise your feelings, as well as being able to control them and express them appropriately. It also means that you can empathise with people, and recognise their emotions as well as your own.
Five benefits
There are many benefits to Emotional intelligence, but here are just a few…
1. It allows for better team work
Teams with emotionally intelligent members are great at working together. They have good communication, trust each other, and value each other’s input. When someone makes a suggestion, they’re able to respond in a positive and productive way.
2. You can deal with change
Not many people like change, but Emotional intelligence gives you the tools you need to deal with any change that comes your way. In the workplace, many people often face change with a negative attitude and crossed arms; but an emotionally intelligent person will be much more positive and can inspire other team members to feel the same way.
3. You can handle those tough conversations
Whether it’s an angry customer or an upset employee, difficult conversations can stir up all sorts of emotions. If you have the right skills, you can handle those conversations by emotionally connecting with the other person before finding a resolution.
4. It’s an essential people skill
Emotional intelligence allows you to quickly build trust with people, as well as a rapport. You’ll be able to understand their feelings and empathise with them – fantastic for any role that involves working in teams!
5. It’s a key feature of a strong leader
Great leaders understand people; they know how they work, how to influence them, and how to inspire them. Emotional intelligence will help you to achieve this understanding in order to be a brilliant leader and guide your team in the right direction.
How to improve your Emotional intelligence
If you’re ready to work on your Emotional intelligence then take a look at our one day course here
