“We take our emotions for granted. Our emotions are what they are, but “emotional intelligence (EQ) is the other kind of smart,” as stated by www.talentsmart.com. “Emotional intelligence is something in each of us that is a bit intangible. It affects how we manage behavior, navigate social complexities and make personal decisions that achieve positive results”
Most people are looking for ways to improve. We want our personal life to thrive and we want our businesses to become more successful. Part of this process is developing our own emotional intelligence and also managing the emotional intelligence of our employees. Think about it: do your emotions factor into your decision making?
How much of an impact does emotional intelligence have on your professional success? A LOT! TalentSmart tested emotional intelligence alongside 33 other important workplace skills and found that emotional intelligence is the strongest predictor of performance. You have met people who are extremely smart but yet unsuccessful at work or in their personal relationships. IQ and EQ must exist in tandem in order to be the best you can be.
The first step in managing your EQ, is learning to manage your stress. Stress can lead to serious health problems: high blood pressure, risk of heart attack and stroke. Uncontrolled emotions/stress can impact YOUR mental health leading to anxiety and depression. By managing your stress, you will begin to feel more comfortable in responding to strong or unpleasant emotions. There are many websites that can give you tips on stress. Books you can read. Don’t ignore how important handling stress is to your well-being. Stress takes us out of our comfort zone and we can become overwhelmed and lose control of the situation. Self-management is the first step.
How does self-awareness play a part? You must be able to connect to your emotions. This is key to understanding how emotion influences your thoughts and actions. How do others perceive you? Everyone gives nonverbal cues. This tells the person you are interacting with how you are really feeling. For example, experts say if you are speaking with someone and they are sitting with their arms crossed, there is a nonverbal clue that they are not receptive to what you are saying. Be aware of the nonverbal clues you are giving. Life is busy and we are all multitasking. When having a conversation (and this includes with your employees), put all thoughts aside and focus on what is in front of you.
Just as important, as a business owner, it is important for you to manage an employee’s emotions. Scientific evidence shows that women cry on the average of five times a month (in or outside the workplace) compared to one time to men. Experts say it is partly biological. Women also don’t feel they are able to express anger at work. However, two-thirds of men believe displaying anger is an effective tool. If you have an employee who starts to cry or a man who is showing anger, it is important to acknowledge it. If you see this, ask if they would like to talk about it? Or would you like to come back later? If they elect to come back later, the expert suggests you take the time to sit down with them and discuss the problem.
Researchers Megha Oberoi and Paresh Rajgarhia wrote, “Our analysis revealed that most companies invest in world class processes for their performance management system, but they overlook the importance of the people element.”
Emotions spread from person to person. Business owners/managers shape the emotional life of a business considering their roles. So whatever is happening in the Business owners/mangers life spreads throughout. That is why it is important to your business and your employees to get in touch with your emotions.
Watch for information on the Fabricare 2018 in Long Beach. This event is one you do not want to miss.
