Softer Side Of Excellence
A CareerBuilders survey says 71% of employers value emotional intelligence, or EQ, over IQ. Many employers believe people can be taught “hard,” or technical skillls more readily than EQ, the required softer, human relations skills.
I agree with their assessment. For more than 30 years as a speaker, leadership development expert and executive coach, in most situations in which I’ve been involved, what leads to poor performance, job dissatisfaction, ineffective leadership, expensive turnover and a lack of promote-ability is the “stuff” on the softer side of the excellence equation.
For enhanced excellence, strengthen your emotional intelligence. Begin by becoming more self-aware. Do so by paying attention to your feelings. Silently notice and name the emotion you’re experiencing. Consciously decide if it’s a feeling you want to act on or contain. This alone can help you close the gap between your intent and impact.
