The Positive Impact Of Emotional Intelligence And Emotional Intelligence

Introduction Emotional Intelligence (EQ) remains a widely debated topic despite its growing importance and the positive impact it has had in the workplace (Goleman, 2014; Ugoani, Amu & Kalu 2015). Yet many scholars continue to discount its validity relying solely upon research methodologies and data analysis as a basis for decision-making as opposed to utilizing, and even combining the emotional aspect of intelligence into work life where it is often needed. Research has shown having a high IQ is a predictor of job success. However, in the article It’s Not IQ Versus Emotional Intelligence, Goleman (2014) states, “The more your success on the job depends on relating to people — whether in sales, as a team member, or as a leader — the

Daniel Goleman brought the idea of emotional intelligence to the forefront in which he posits that in order to be successful, leaders must possess the following virtues: an awareness of oneself, the ability to have self-control (or manage one’s own emotion and those around), to be empathetic towards others, and finally to maintain and positively manage work relationships (Goleman, 2014; Ugoani, 2015). More specifically, emotional intelligence requires that leaders be more observant of others, focusing on how we as leaders can help individuals or groups reach their full potential. Goleman believed that this is an important aspect of intelligence particularly in business and the high potential of working in teams. Complete reliance on cognitive intelligence may adversely impact certain decisions. For this reason, emotional intelligence training should be an integral part of an organization’s traditional training (Racolţa-Paina & Pleşca,

IQ training should be supplemented with EQ modeling and education because IQ alone does not always ensure high performance from its team members. Having an increased awareness of your own emotions and the emotions of fellow team members does not necessary equate to high performance. However, it can help teams to build trust, commitment, behavioral norms and team effectiveness which can lead to high performance (Othman et al.,