The last 25 years, during which academics worldwide have paid serious attention to emotional intelligence research, show that the ability to manage one's own emotions and emotions of others has a positive impact on both life and career success, work performance and leadership. At the same time, however, it was proved that people with a low EQ are insufficiently aware of how important skills they lack. In short, we can better assess the emotional intelligence of others than our own.
People with lower emotional intelligence are generally more negative. Dealing with them is more difficult and less enjoyable than dealing with higher EQ people. We can't, however, avoid them altogether so we should know how to make the encounters as pleasant as possible. The following practical tips were published on the Harvard Business Review website by Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic, a recognised expert in psychometric testing, professor of organisational psychology at University College London and newly appointed CEO of Hogan Assessment Systems.
1. Be kind
The fact you are dealing with an unpleasant person does not mean you also have to be unpleasant. By remaining polite and calm, you are more likely to calm the other person too and provide them with a sense of security. Reacting negatively will be a psychological threat and source of stress for the other side.
2. Speak clearly
People with a lower EQ are not always able to interpret others' intentions correctly, which leads to misunderstandings. They are less able to perceive body language and lack empathy. Therefore, everything should be properly explained and accurately described to them.
3. Follow your mind
People with a lower EQ struggle with their own emotions and do not have further capacity to deal with your emotions. To gain their trust and convince them, you have to act rationally and logically.
4. Do not feel insulted
Lack of empathy speaks for itself. Prepare for greater directness in communication, even for bluntness from lower EQ people. Do not take their lack of common ethical principles as a personal attack. Remember that even people with a high EQ have their downsides, the most common of which is complacency.
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