Why emotional intelligence goes a long way in leading a business

Having a high IQ is, of course, essential in order to make logical decisions and actions throughout the day. This factor is what most leaders usually adhere to. However, these leaders may have failed to notice that success will continue for leaders and entrepreneurs who take emotional intelligence or EQ into account and also prioritize it in their businesses.

As what Inc. reported, EQ also plays a significant role in the management of business leaders. EQ is defined as the “heightened awareness of others’ emotions, including your own,” and leaders can use it as a tool to be more conscious and estimate the emotions of their employees. It will also grant leaders a new perspective to develop various tactics in handling situations inside their companies or businesses and give them an extra nudge to perform their tasks.

EQ can also gauge how well people can control their emotions, per Forbes. A person’s sentiments can be difficult to manage, and this can lead to the lack of motivation and the failure to socialize well and to consider other people’s emotions.

IQ is indeed helpful in assessing situations as well. But it limits the decision-making process and the evaluation of circumstances into only the objective point of view. If we take EQ into consideration, the way how various challenges encountered during the course of the business’ daily operations are handled will be more flexible as EQ taps into how people adjust to situations accordingly to survive.

In effect, there will be more options available and more factors to weigh into approach things fittingly and to avoid any other problem that can emerge as a reaction. These are all possible because leaders are aware of their employees’ emotional condition and stress levels.

Unlocking new and better traits with EQ

Aside from understanding the emotions of employees, leaders with high EQs can also get a grasp of the employees’ emotional strengths and weaknesses, which can be spotted by looking at the interactions and mannerisms these employees do. For example, some employees may be quiet because they are simply shy. But there may be another reason for their silence like dissatisfaction with their job or the company or a leader’s way of managing in the company.

Leaders in touch with their EQs will also have the advantage of easily identifying their own emotional assets and flaws. Once they have seen their advantages and faults, they can keep using these strong suits and focus on the weaknesses to work on improving themselves and even fix what is broken for personal and professional growth. This growth can also permeate the office and even inspire their employees to improve themselves as well.

A high level of EQ can also lead to better socialization, which is a key element in keeping the good run of a company. Having good social skills can definitely help in establishing meaningful personal and professional relationships, especially since fellow business leaders and employees appreciate a leader who can communicate effectively and cooperate well with other people.

One noteworthy example in Inc.’s article is the new letter carrier who took the initiative to forge relationships with those on his delivery route. He wrote an introductory letter to these people and immediately established a welcoming persona in order to help his customers feel at ease with him.

A leader must be sensitive enough to his colleagues and not just concentrate on having high IQ. (Source)

Some ways to improve EQ

Despite the fact that there are people who are adept with their EQ, those who are getting the feel of the field can still improve. Here are some ways on how to hone your EQ.

1. Take some time to think.

Making decisions quickly can end up badly for some especially when deciding in the heat of the moment. Most of the time, it is better to just take a moment to pause and reflect in order to understand the surge of emotions going into your mind. Writing down in a journal is useful in tracking your actions and emotions. Taking a walk is also helpful to ponder on what happened through the day.

2. Listen intently and sincerely.

An effective communication process is two-way. One sends a message, while the other receives it. A conversation is considered effective if the person listening understood what the other said. When it comes to improving the EQ, listening can help an individual to adjust his or her message in order to get the right response. Listening lets the talker know that the listener is really intent on understanding him or her, and this establishes an insightful relationship.

3. Keep an open mind.

Even if you do not agree to a certain opinion or idea, it is better to understand that belief or thought to come up with a better and balanced outcome. If you want to keep your mind open, listen to debates and do not neglect to listen and understand the perspective of both parties. Reading novels is also effective in opening one’s mind as the various personalities of the characters within the literature can help you appreciate differences.

Emotional intelligence is an underappreciated aspect of people’s lives. It is better to not neglect it in order to create more meaningful relationships and interactions in and out of the company. Honing the EQ can also lead the company to a better progress and success in the long run, benefitting both the leader and the employees.