In the beginning of a focus group on Emotional Intelligence, I invited the participants to suggest the characteristics that differentiate High EQ Leaders as follows:
- Good listeners
- Managing stress effectively
- Good at dealing with negative emotions
- Optimistic
- Bringing positive energy to the society
- Bridging among different levels of employees in an organization
With the help of the EQi 2.0 Card Sort activity, the groups further shared their observations regarding what contributes most to work or leadership success. Among the 15 EQi 2.0 components or subscales, more than half of the participants identified Self-Regard and Empathy as the most important qualities that contribute to work or leadership success; while Emotional Expression and Optimism were also mentioned. According to the EQi 2.0 Model (MHS), the specific definitions of the four top-ranked components are:
Self-Regard is respecting oneself while understanding and accepting one’s strengths and weaknesses. Self-Regard is often associated with feelings of inner strength and self-confidence.
Empathy is recognizing, understanding, and appreciating how other people feel. Empathy involves being able to articulate your understanding of another’s perspective and behaving in a way that respects others’ feelings.
Emotional Expression is openly expressing one’s feelings verbally and non-verbally.
Optimism is an indicator of one’s positive attitude and outlook on life. It involves remaining hopeful and resilient, despite occasional setbacks.
LRT Consulting organizes focus groups on a regular basis to closely explore emerging business and leadership issues; and co-create innovative solutions with leaders to enhance individual, team and organization performance. Please feel free to contact us for the upcoming focus group schedules or proposing topics of interest to you.
(This article was also posted on LinkedIn by Stanley CHAK on July 5, 2017)