Emotional Intelligence: Is It Important?

Emotional intelligence (EI), that intangible piece of a person that governs how he/she manages the behavior, navigates through social complexities and makes personal choices, encompasses the ability not only to recognize personal emotions but also to understand the message they are sending you and how they affect those around you. It is a key principle of professional success.  EI is also a crucial factor for HR to consider when hiring – it can make the difference between an ok hire and a great hire.

So what are the components of this essential trait?

Self-awareness: the ability to perceive your emotions accurately and in the moment, recognizing how they are affecting the people around you. This awareness:

  • Enables you to recognize and deal with your emotions instead of being overwhelmed by them.
  • Enhances your ability to receive constructive criticism and learn from it, responding in a positive manner.
  • Helps you work better in teams.

Self-regulation or management: the ability to respond appropriately – neither “dumping your emotions with intensity and disregard of consequences, nor shoving them down, but expressing your opinions, ideas, and emotions clearly with restraint and control. This controlled regulation:

  • Improves your ability to cope with change, to be flexible, and to reduce stress right in the moment in a variety of situations.
  • Enhances your ability to respond with resilience and optimism when encountering disappointment.
  • Ensures your ability to manage and direct your behavior and tendencies in positive ways.

Social Awareness and Competence: The ability to the moods, behaviors, and motives of the people around you. This awareness:

  • Enhances the quality of your relationships – professionally and personally – helping you manage interactions successfully and positively, resolving conflicts with confidence and poise.
  • Helps you build rapport and trust with others, creating cohesive teams without backstabbing and power struggles.
  • Encourages genuine connection with people on a personal level

Intentionally developing your emotional intelligence reaps multiple rewards mentally, physically, and professionally. People with strong healthy EI are less likely to suffer anxiety and depression and more apt to avoid other healthy issues such as hypertension, or low immunity. They more easily cultivate effective communication skills and therefore, build stronger relationships. EI helps individuals navigate professional social complexities and lead, inspire, and motivate their colleagues.

As 2016 quickly approaches, Springborn Staffing encourages the growth of emotional intelligence. It can make a difference. So can contacting us – we specialize in connecting emotionally intelligent talent with premier businesses in Bangor and Portland, Maine.

 

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