EQ at Work

You are in a MTR train during rush hour, and someone accidentally steps on your brand new shoe. You are physically in pain; but your heart bleeds for the new shoes you have just bought. Then, the bleeding turns into anger; but, at the same time, that person said sorry. What would you do? You'd probably smile and say, "It's ok". When you go back home, you immediately wax off your shoe, while cursing the person who stepped on your shoe.

Introducing EQ

Though we might not be aware of it, we are constantly using our Emotional Quotient (EQ). In the simplest term, EQ is one's ability to be aware of his/ her feelings and emotions, and, regardless of the effects of those emotions, exhibit behaviors that are relevant to the norms within the social context. In other words, individuals possessing high EQ are able to control their behaviors, despite the emotions - however intense they might be -they are experiencing.

What is EQ?

EQ can be broken down into these abilities:

1. the ability to be aware of one's own and others' feelings and emotions; and
   
2. the ability to recognize the appropriate behaviors in a given situation ; and
   
3. the ability to act based on one's understanding of the facts instead of emotions

On a typical working day, where and when would you first exercise your EQ? Will it be on the bus? The company lobby? The elevator at the place where you work? Whenever we consciously exhibit what we understand as "appropriate" behaviors - regardless of how we feel - in order to achieve desirable results (results can be a smile from others, optimal work relationships, etc.), we are using our EQ.

EQ and Work

The relationship between EQ and work can be discussed from the following perspectives: job nature, maintenance of organizational morale, and workplace relationship.

Some jobs, by nature, require employees to possess high EQ in order to be effective. These jobs are mostly found in the service industry. For example, flight attendants smile at customers at all times; and bank tellers do not scold their customers despite making unreasonable requests. These jobs require employees to exercise high level of control of their emotions, which enable them to, on the one hand, be aware of the emotions they are experiencing; and, on the other, exhibit "proper" or "standard" behaviors in respective situations.

EQ is also crucial in our efforts to maintain organizational morale so as to achieve a sense of stability and team effectiveness. Imagine being in a work setting where everyone acts according to how he/ she feels. Workplace
conflicts, delay of work, and poor teamwork would probably be the results. It is not to imply that we should suppress our emotions at all times; rather, we should use our EQ to get a better grasp of our emotions, while being
consideration of those in our work environment.

EQ also facilitates relationship building in the workplace. Not only do employees with high EQ manage their emotions well, they are able to demonstrate understanding of the needs of their colleagues. As a result, they tend to be well-liked by their colleagues and are good team players. In terms of leadership, effective team leaders usually possess high EQ,
demonstrating consistency in their leadership patterns and sensitivity to their team members' needs, thus enhance team efficiency.

Enhancing Your EQ

EQ, a versatile "survival tool" in the work place, can be developed and learned. The first step in enhancing our EQ is to develop an awareness and understanding of our own emotions. With this aim in mind, the following are a set of guiding
questions for you to ponder in any situation:

F.E.E.L.

EQ - A Key to Success

In today's workplace, EQ is an invaluable asset to possess. Employers treasure employees who have a keen sense of self-awareness and the ability to work with teams. Therefore, raising our EQ means opening windows for career development opportunities. Dr. Daniel Goleman, author of the renowned book "Emotional Intelligent", once wrote: 20% IQ + 80% EQ = 100% Success. Indeed, EQ has become one of the elements that we need in order to warrant a smooth ride in our professional journey. Moreover, on a personal level, EQ will also bring us a stronger sense of control, optimal interpersonal relationships, and more enjoyment at work.