We define Emotional Intelligence (or EI) as the ability to:

• Recognize, understand and manage our own emotions and;
• Recognize, understand and influence the emotions of others.

In practical terms, this means being aware that emotions can drive our behavior and impact people (positively and negatively), and learning how to manage those emotions – both our own and others.
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Managing emotions is especially important in situations when we are under pressure. For example, when we are…

• Giving and receiving feedback
• Meeting tight deadlines
• Dealing with challenging relationships
• Not having enough resources
• Navigating change
• Working through setbacks and failure

Where Did the Term Emotional Intelligence Come From?

The term emotional intelligence was created by two researchers, Peter Salavoy and John Mayer in their article “Emotional Intelligence” in the journal Imagination, Cognition, and Personality in 1990. It was later popularized by Dan Goleman in his 1995 book Emotional Intelligence.

(above is copied exactly from IHHB. Below lightbox items sourced from Canva, citation in the images.)

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Watch Dr. Daniel Goleman introduce Emotional Intelligence.

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Reflection

• Name one moment that surprised you about this video.
• Name one fact you already knew before it was presented in the video.
• What do you still wonder about emotional intelligence?

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What Are the Signs of Emotional Intelligence (EI)?

Emotional intelligence is a set of skills and behaviors that can be learned and developed. Here are some telltale signs of people with low EI and those with high EI.

People with low EI:

• Often feels misunderstood
• Get upset easily
• Become overwhelmed by emotions
• Have problems being assertive

People with high EI:

• Understand the links between their emotions and how they behave
• Remain calm and composed during stressful situations
• Are able to influence others toward a common goal
• Handle difficult people with tact and diplomacy

(above is copied exactly from Harvard Extension. )

It is possible to increase your emotional intelligence to help reach your goals. Here are some suggestions from Dr. Goleman.

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Reflection

• Dr. Goleman mentions that the "big tip-off" in identifying issues of emotional intelligence are repeated patterns in life: dating the same type of person, getting fired from a job, or other patterns that are repeated. Do you have a repeated pattern in your life? Describe it.

Additional Reading

• Fast Company has several suggestions of how emotional intelligence may get you promoted.

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Activity: Improving Emotional Intelligence

Part 1: Critiquing an interaction between a supervisor and subordinate

Watch this video and note what's happening in regards to emotional intelligence.

Scenario 1: Ashley and her supervisor

Scenario 2: Ashley and her supervisor

Compare your advice for Ashley with her actions in this second video.