Guest Article: Are You Emotionally Intelligent?

By Guest Writer Arnold Sanow

Arnold Sanow, MBA, CSP (Certified Speaking Professional), is a speaker, trainer, coach, and facilitator. He is the author of 7 books to include, “Get Along with Anyone, Anytime, Anywhere” and “Present with Power, Punch, and Pizzazz.” He was recently named by successful meetings magazine as one of the top 5 best “bang for the buck” speakers in the USA.  www.arnoldsanow.com  

In working with leaders and teams to help them get along better with colleagues, customers and team members, one of the major factors that will either enhance or derail relationships and produce a more positive, productive and profitable culture is emotional intelligence.

What is emotional intelligence? It is the ability to work well with others, know oneself and be aware of their emotions and sensitive to the feeling and emotions of others. Emotionally intelligent people are able to motivate themselves and their teams without using fear or intimidation and to be empathetic.

Psychologist Daniel Goleman states there are 5 elements that make up Emotional Intelligence:

• Self-awareness
• Self-regulation
• Motivation
• Empathy
• Social skills

To see if you are emotionally intelligent here are 15 questions that can help you determine your Emotional Intelligence IQ. Be honest and work on the ones you did not answer positively.

• Are you aware of your feelings and why you feel that way?
• Do you know your strengths as well as your weaknesses and blind spots?
• Do you know when your behaviors or actions affect others?
• Are you able to manage your distressing emotions well and bounce back quickly from stressful situations?
• Do you adapt well to change?
• Are you able to manage your emotions, stay calm and not go into “road rage” when you feel anxious or upset?
• Are you able to listen without making judgements and assumptions?
• Are you aware of the feelings, perspectives and “hidden meanings” of those around you?
• Can you admit to others that you made a mistake?
• Are you willing to compromise and be open to win-win agreements?
• Are you focused and in the present when talking with others?
• Are you open to honest feedback and constructive criticism about your work without getting defensive or making excuses?
• Are you good at building rapport, relationships and connections with others?
• Do you take responsibility for your actions without blaming others?
• Are you empathetic?

Based on the results from our training and coaching programs here are some of the benefits our clients have reported:

• Improved teamwork
• Better leadership
• Enhanced rapport, relationships and connections with team members and customers
• Less stress, tension and conflicts
• Clearer communication
• Elimination of misunderstandings
• Easier to persuade, motivate and influence team members and customers
• Understanding and appreciation of differences/diversity
• More positive, productive and profitable work culture.

(Article published with Arnold Sanow’s permission)