What is a Differentiator for those who Succeed?

People function and interact with influence from our personality (human behavior profile), intellect (IQ) and our emotions. (Figure 1) We have a natural tendency for our behavior, but also a learned behavior model. Just as we can learn to increase our intellect, we can learn how to improve our communication and emotional behaviors.

Figure 1

Why is it that even though someone is popular, that there is often a gap in applying this characteristic to job performance? It is not just Charisma. It is more than that. A well-balanced person will have learned communication skills to deal with various personalities, intellect to analyze tasks and a third component known as Emotional Intelligence (EQ). Emotional intelligence is an element of human behavior distinct from intellect. It is the ability to recognize and understand emotions in yourself and others.

Yes, emotional intelligence can be learned. It may account for approximately 58% of your job performance. It has been estimated that 90% of high performers in their jobs had High EQ whereas only 20% of Low performers had High EQ. It has also been suggested that those with High EQ were also related to having higher incomes. Many academic programs focus on IQ for admission standards while neglecting the emotional development of an individual. This is why there is tremendous value in searching for opportunities to obtain leadership training, life coaching and/or human behavior consulting. Success depends on more than just intelligence.

So what is the physiologic connection with emotional intelligence? Primary sensory input will enter the brain at Spinal Cord and from the base of the brain the information travels through the Limbic System where emotions are experienced and then on to the Frontal lobe where Rational thinking occurs. Here is the key; High EQ requires good communication between the Rational and Emotional Centers.

Have you ever noticed that many times, the first reactions to events will always be an emotional one?

If so, here are Four Emotional Skills to Understand:

1. Self-Awareness: This is the ability to accurately perceive our own emotions in a moment and our tendencies across situations.
2. Self-Management: This is what happens when you act – or do not act. It is the ability to use your awareness to direct your behaviors. It is self-discipline. An example would be holding judgment on a situation until you have had a chance to take a step back and review the information.
3. Social Awareness: This is the ability to pick up on the emotions of others and understand what is going on with them. For example, reading the mood, apprehension, excitement or fears of others.
4. Relationship Management: This is the ability to use the awareness of your own emotions as well as the emotions of others to successfully manage interactions.  For example, when you understand a person’s behavior profile, there are keys to connecting with them in a more effective way.

Remember, EQ is just as important as IQ when it comes to success. So start training your EQ today.