IN an era dominated by rapid technological advancement and evolving socio-political dynamics, one skill stands out as a beacon for success in the workplace: emotional intelligence.

Audrey Cole-Crosdale, JP, a renowned human resource management and development specialist, defines emotional intelligence as the capacity to comprehend, utilise, and manage personal emotions in constructive ways. These abilities not only help surmount challenges, navigate conflicts, and alleviate stress but also foster robust, sustainable relationships and create an environment of unity amidst diverse workplace opinions.

Cole-Crosdale underscores, “Being emotionally intelligent permits individuals to interact, engage, and truly understand their peers. It uncovers the ‘why’ behind actions, which is pivotal for empathising with co-workers.”

The four pillars of emotional intelligence:

1. Self-management: “In this digital age, adaptability is paramount. We face incessant changes, and managing one’s emotions, taking initiative, and following through on commitments is crucial. Succumbing to impulsive feelings can lead to regrettable choices,” says Cole-Crosdale.

2. Self-awareness: Cole-Crosdale asserts, “It’s about recognising your actions and understanding their emotional implications. By being self-aware, you discern your strengths and weaknesses. It facilitates seeking assistance, identifying areas needing training, and addressing performance gaps — all essential for maintaining workplace standards.”

3. Social awareness: While self-awareness revolves around introspection, social awareness extends this understanding outward. “It’s not just about empathy but recognising power dynamics in the workplace, a nuance that can guide decision-making towards a more cohesive working environment,” Cole-Crosdale points out.

4. Relationship management: Building relationships is pivotal, but sustaining them is even more crucial. “In the realm of work, relationship management is the backbone of high-performing organisations. It’s not just about profitability but fostering cooperation, collaboration, engagement, and mutually beneficial dynamics.”

A lack of emotional intelligence can adversely affect a workplace, but the silver lining is it’s teachable. Many human resource management entities, including the Career Doc, specialise in training sessions that bolster this essential skill, ensuring personalised career support for individuals aiming to excel professionally.

Want to ensure your workplace thrives in the modern era? Embrace emotional intelligence and invest in training that can unlock your team’s full potential.

Kristofferson Nunes is founder & lead career consultant for The Career Doc – thecareerdocx.com.