Psychologist and science journalist Daniel Goleman published a revolutionizing book call Emotional Intelligence in 1995.  The topic of the book was not unique – because the concept and criteria for EQ had been studied for decades – but it’s application to the workplace and leadership based on his research at nearly 200 large, global organizations is what made it ground breaking…

The book was on The New York Times bestseller list for a year-and-a-half, with more than 5,000,000 copies in print worldwide.

… “a revolutionary, paradigm-shattering idea,”  The Harvard Business Review

Emotional intelligence or EQ is the ability to perceive, control and evaluate emotions. Goleman’s work (along with the more recent experts) discovered that although the common leadership qualities, like intelligence, vision, determination and decisiveness  are vital for success, they aren’t enough…Highly effective leaders also have a solid degree of emotional intelligence.  Research has proven direct links between a leader’s emotional intelligence and measurable business results.

BUT…EQ is not only important for senior management.. It’s necessary for success at any level in your career. Organizations that understand and value emotional intelligence look for employees with high EQ’s in order to promote from within and groom for leadership roles.  So effectively, having a strong EQ is essential if you want to rise to higher levels of responsibility in your job,.

Question?  Can we ALL have a high level of EQ?  If you don’t have it now, can you improve your EQ? Although your level of EQ is relatively firm (based on personality and upbringing), it isn’t unchangeable … studies have proven that if you are willing and committed you can change!

3 WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR EQ IN THE WORKPLACE NOW (Emotional Intelligence Course)!

1. Improve your self-awareness and self regulation

• Accept that uncertainty, frustrations, and disappointments are simply part of any work environment. Rather than complaining or acting out, brainstorm alternatives or solutions that might be beneficial to you and your company. Present those ideas in a professional and calm way.
• Find ways to release and manage stress outside of work through exercise, meditation, talking with friends and family, and other hobbies or interests. Don’t allow stress to compromise your EQ and integrity.Try to stay uninvolved in office politics, drama, or conflict. Don’t allow your desire to be part of the group undermine your integrity and professional behavior
• Consider how your negative emotions (anger, jealously, frustration, disengagement, etc.) may have impacted your boss, clients, and co-workers in the past. Acknowledge the fallout and repercussions of your emotion
• Take an honest look at your own strengths and weaknesses. Look at past performance reviews and ask for feedback from your boss and others at your office that you trust. Actively work on improving your weak areas.

2. Improve your motivation today

• Recognize that everyone is more drawn to positive, energized, and inspiring people. As you improve your motivation, you’ll see that you get more attention from decision makers, clients, and peers.
• Set inspiring goals for yourself and determine specific actions to reach your goals. Reward yourself for every milestone and accomplishment along the way.

3. Improve your ability to show empathy and your social skills

• Practice active listening and reflect back what the other person is saying, so it’s clear you both understand what’s being communicated. When people feel heard, they tend to be more willing to cooperate and compromise.
• Consciously try to view situations from the other person’s point of view. This is particularly important in conflict situations that can easily create a stalemate. Recognize that we’re all working from the knowledge and experiences we have — rather than judging the person as right or wrong or good or bad.
• Practice the Golden Rule — treat others the way you want to be treated in all situations
• One of the best ways to improve social skills is by becoming an effective communicator. Learn to listen carefully, ask good questions, and be clear and accurate in providing information. Be sure your writing skills are sharp and that you use a proper and professional tone when writing.
• Become the go-to person who finds solutions and resolves conflict. When you have integrity, you’re even-handed and calm, and you’re committed to finding the best and right outcome, people will begin to see you as essential and knowledgeable.
• Understand the person you’re talking to. You can’t have a one-size-fits-all approach to interacting with everyone in the workplace. You need to know how to finesse and tailor an interaction to the person involved, based on their personality, cultural orientation, and position in the company. Here’s a great article on managing and communicating with different personalities.

Benefit from BOTI’s EQ Workshop:

• Define and practice self-management, self-awareness, self-regulation, self-motivation, and empathy
• Understand, use and manage your emotions
• Verbally communicate with others
• Successfully communicate with others in a non-verbal manner
• Identify the benefits of emotional intelligence
• Relate emotional intelligence to the workplace
• Balance optimism and pessimism
• Effectively impact others

The benefits of improving your EQ go beyond your career… Research has proved that a higher EQ has been linked to better mental and physical health, improved relationships and more general happiness and decreased levels of cortisol (less stress!). Please consult the following link for more details on the course.

For an in-depth look at what other courses we offer click on our secure website  boti.co.za   or alternatively view our latest course schedules .