How to Develop EQ in Employees?
Developing EQ in employees can prove to be extremely beneficial for organizations. To achieve success, possessing a high IQ is not enough. As per research, it is estimated that people who have an average IQ score possess the ability to outperform those individuals who have higher intelligence. With further investigation, it was revealed that the people with average IQ scores, possessed high EQ scores and hence they were able to surpass others.
Emotional intelligence or EQ refers to a transferable skill which is demanded by every level of the workforce. The term emotional intelligence was created in 1996 by two researchers, namely John Mayer and Peter Salavoy. EQ is defined as an amazing ability that helps individuals to comprehend their emotions and manage them. It allows them to embrace their emotions and comprehend and manage the emotions of other people. The skill of EQ is essential for leaders as it allows them to mentor and lead a team effectively. Therefore, this article states certain ways using which an individual can develop EQ in the employees of their workforce. It will foster a positive and healthy environment, increasing employee satisfaction and growth.
Start from scratch
When a workplace begins to shift their culture to an emotionally intelligent landscape, beginning from scratch and having a top-down perspective will be helpful. The leaders of the organization must be on board for the change since they set the tone for the employees. If they do not agree with the initiative, then it can sabotage the entire process. However, it should be kept in mind that the management of the organization should take equal part in developing the emotional intelligence of the employees. The leaders along with the managers should remodel their behavior and bring necessary changes that they want to see in their employees.
- Leaders can talk openly about the challenges they faced in front of their employees to demonstrate awareness of their emotions.
- They should offer time to their employees and ensure that they feel satisfied and happy in the workplace.
- Leaders should practice to understand and empathize with the employees whenever they are facing a tough time.
Allow the employees to be vulnerable
To develop emotional intelligence in the employees, the leaders should foster a healthy and positive work environment. People often feel hesitant about discussing their private issues or unpleasant situations, and hence avoid being honest. However, it is important to strengthen their confidence during challenging circumstances and allow them to be vulnerable. By being vulnerable, leaders can spread awareness among their employees about their situations. They should promote an environment in which the employees can share their ideas freely and not feel criticized by having a personal opinion. It will effectively promote the concept of emotional intelligence in the workplace.
Elevate self-awareness in the workplace
Self-awareness is identified as the driving force for developing emotional intelligence among employees in the workplace. Leaders should offer feedback about their employees regarding their behavior in the workplace to make them aware about their own feelings. It will help the employees to become aware of their thoughts, emotions, and state of mind in different situations. However, it is not necessary to constantly observe every reaction, but one should always pay attention to themselves. It will allow them to pay attention to each other’s response and take note of how they interact.
Listen to each other without judging
Listening is considered as a valuable trait which is often neglected. Leaders should start listening to their employees to make them feel valued. Consequently, the employees will also start listening to each other and respecting their opinions instead of putting forward their own. Even if one does not agree with someone else’s thoughts, they should acknowledge it instead of intervening. Active listening and allowing employees to enjoy discussions will help in developing emotional intelligence among them. It will also establish rapport and trust among the organization.
Practice empathy
Empathy refers to an ability using which an individual can envision the feeling of another individual by putting themselves in their position. By being empathetic towards others, leaders can contribute to the emotional intelligence of the workplace and develop it among their employees. Empathy allows employees to accurately understand the emotions and feelings of the other employees and accurately grasp their emotions. It happens since an individual offers the time to comprehend and visualize the reactions of others in different situations. Therefore practicing empathy can develop emotional intelligence in the workplace.
Conclusion
Developing emotional intelligence in the organization among employees is important for the business. It allows them to feel the emotions of others and not become insensitive. By practicing the above-mentioned tips and techniques, leaders can develop EQ among their employees and the organization.