In Episode 211 of The Workplace podcast, CalChamber Associate General Counsel Matthew Roberts and emotional intelligence expert and keynote speaker Jen Shirkani share valuable insights on how emotional intelligence (EQ) can transform workplace dynamics, and discuss practical applications for leaders and HR professionals.
Shirkani explains that emotional intelligence, also known as “emotional quotient” (EQ), involves three key components:
• Recognizing yourself: Understanding one’s strengths, weaknesses and how one’s moods affect one’s reactions/listening abilities;
• Reading others: Being socially aware and being able to read others’ cues; and
• Responding appropriately to surroundings: Being able to tailoring one’s interactions based on the situation.
Ego vs. EQ
In discussing managers who may have a low EQ, Shirkani explains that a manager’s communication style may affect their EQ. She shares an example of a leader who was direct and blunt with his team, expecting others to adjust to his communication style. While he was aware of his directness, he lacked the empathy to adjust his approach to different personalities on his team, which could negatively affect morale.
In contrast, a leader with high EQ would recognize the need to adapt their communication style depending on the audience, fostering better relationships and stronger team dynamics.
Impact on Morale, Productivity
Shirkani also discusses how EQ can have a positive impact on organizational morale. She cites that research shows that leaders who demonstrate humility are 22 times more likely to inspire trust than those who do not show that humility.
Generational Challenges
Research shows that EQ and IQ scores are declining by generation, Shirkani says. She believes that in the coming years, a big separator of successful companies will be those investing in EQ workforce training and development.
“This will become a big separator, in my mind, of those that are building success, that are the talent magnets, the employees that everybody wants to have, or the leader everybody wants to work for,” she tells Roberts.
Workplace Conflict
Shirkani also discusses the importance of proactively addressing workplace conflict by focusing on emotional intelligence. With higher EQ, individuals develop better self-awareness, which helps them understand how their mood affects interactions and responses. This self-awareness allows them to be more open to feedback, take responsibility for their actions, and avoid impulsive reactions, leading to less conflict.
She also highlights the need to balance assertiveness and empathy in communication — too much assertiveness can come across as domineering, while too much empathy can result in weak boundaries. By framing performance feedback in terms of emotional intelligence, teams can better understand how to improve collaboration and address issues more effectively.
Resources, Assessments
More than ever before, there are many websites and online resources available that discuss EQ and provide assessments so people can measure their emotional intelligence. Shirkani recommends Daniel Goleman’s books on EQ, as they are backed by extensive research.
Additionally, Shirkani’s website, penumbra.com, contains a resources section that includes links to articles, books, webinars and content related to EQ.
