In continuing on the topic of EQ, let’s look at what research has shown us. Research has demonstrated a strong association between EQ and job performance. It has shown that when emphasis is placed on emotional intelligence in the work place, problem solving and decision- making improve as well as the ability to cope with change. Thus, companies employing EQ maximize their potential for increased productivity and overall business success because their employees are more powerfully connected.
Building relationships is a key skill when it comes to EQ and we know that real business is based upon relationships. People do business with those they know, like and trust, so relationships are key. An individual with strong relationship building capabilities is able to create relationships at all levels within and outside of their organization, which enables them to operate effectively even in undesirable environments because they have that skill. Leaders with that skill tend to have greater access to decision makers because of the relationships they have with them. Additionally, they may be afforded opportunities that others won’t because they’ve devoted time to building relationships. At the end of the day, the organization’s overall productivity increases.
Dr. BarOn’s research with Beefeater’s demonstrated that improving the EQ of managers does increase organizational productivity. Their restaurants’ annual profit increase was directly related to increase in managers’ EQ. That research also concluded that there were correlations between EQ and managerial performance, team and customer satisfaction.