5 Emotional Intelligence FAQs
December 13th, 2006 by Galba BrightDownload this article in PDF format
Here are 5 questions that people often ask about Emotional Intelligence. I hope you find the answers useful. Do let me know what you’d like to know more about and post additional questions in the comments section.
Q1: What Are The 4 Elements of Emotional Intelligence?
The first, Self-Awareness involves knowing what you are feeling in the moment and using those preferences to guide your decision-making.
Self Management, the second element, speaks to how well you manage your emotions so that they help rather than hinder the task at hand.
The third element, Social Awareness covers your capacity for sensing what people are feeling and being able to understand their point of view.
Relationship Management is the fourth element. It addresses your competency in guiding, motivating, leading and influencing others.
Q2: What Impact Will My Emotional Intelligence Have On My Career?
If you have weaknesses in your Emotional Intelligence, you can seriously harm your career. A study of executives showed that 75% of the reasons why careers are derailed can be traced to weaknesses in Emotional Intelligence.The three primary causes of career failure are poor interpersonal skills, not being a good player and difficulties in handling change.

Nearly all jobs require people to be able to work together effectively. Hence emotionally intelligent employees are in high demand.A high intellect alone will rarely propel you to career success in the 21st Century. Many managers are very effective because they are highly emotionally intelligent, despite having average or less than average intellectual ability.
Q3: How Is My Emotional Intelligence Related To My IQ?
Your IQ, (Intelligence Quotient), is measured by tests such as GSAT, CXC, ‘A’ levels and other educational qualifications. It measures your intellect and is fixed. IQ assesses your cognitive skills such as literacy, numeracy and spatial awareness. Emotional Intelligence refers to your ability to manage your emotions and to respond effectively to other people. You can measure your Emotional Intelligence by taking a professionally designed assessment.
Q4: Is My Emotional Intelligence Fixed?
No, it is not. You can increase your Emotional Intelligence through practice and learning. That’s what Tune Up Your EQ is all about.
Q5: I Want To Improve My Emotional Intelligence. What Should I Do?
There are several things that you can do. For example, you should keep a journal or diary to record and reflect on your experiences. This process of reflection and recording can boost your self awareness and self management.
You should also actively invite feedback on your behaviour from people you trust. Their honest observations can help you to identify and act on any blind spots that may have caused you difficulty in the past. You can also work with a coach to set goals for improving your Emotional Intelligence and receive ongoing support as you progress.
Improving your Emotional Intelligence is a very rewarding and process that requires patience and practice. If you invest in yourself you can transform your career and your quality of life.
What other Emotional Intelligence questions do you have? Post them in the comment section and I’ll be happy to answer them for you.
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Posted in Competencies, Emotional Intelligence, Daniel Goleman, Blog, Career Development, Managing Yourself, People Skills, Influencing Others, Self Awareness |





