Use of Emotional Intelligence to Communicate Effectively

Communication is vital to many everyday activities, such as conversing with a loved one, discussing a situation with a co-worker, or giving a speech. Speakers do not always communicate as successfully as they believe they do, in fact, speakers have been found to systematically overestimate their communication effectiveness. Most of the time the senders and receivers communicate successfully, but there are times when the lines of communication breakdown. In a work environment the lines of communication must remain intact because if there are any misunderstandings these misunderstandings could result in a life or death situation. Using your emotional intelligence when communicating with co-workers will help break down the barriers in the communication process no matter your co-workers background, nationality or gender.

Everyone uses their emotional intelligence on a daily basis, sometimes without realizing it. Emotional intelligence (EI) is the ability to understand and get along with others by being self-aware, being able to manage your emotions, by motivating yourself, by recognizing emotions in others, and by the way you handle relationships (Hybels & Weaver, 2007). Understanding the characteristics of EI and how they affect communication is important because knowing the strengths and weaknesses of your EI can make you a successful communicator. EI is a trainable skill so if you are weak in one or more areas you can learn the skills to make yourself stronger in these areas. Out of all of the characteristics of EI being self-aware is crucial. If you are not aware of your own emotions and how you feel you may not be able to determine how other people are feeling or you may not realize how you come across to others. If ...

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...ryone should be on the same page. Following these procedures eliminates the chances of miscommunication.

Knowing your strengths and improving your weaknesses in the area of emotional intelligence will help your communications skills in a positive way. Anyone can improve their emotional intelligence no matter your background, culture or gender. Effective communications skills will open successful lines of communication between co-workers, family and friends. Knowing your faults and improving them will make you a positive, successful person.

Works Cited

Hybels, S. & Weaver II, R.L. (2007). Communicating Effectively, (8th ed.). Boston: McGraw Hill Companies Inc.

Johnson, D.W., & Johnson, F.P., (2009). Joining Together: Group Theory and Group Skills.

Columbus, Ohio: Pearson.

Martin & Nakayama. (2001). Experiencing Intercultural Communication, p. 44.