EQ vs. IQ ?: Is the Smart Quiet Type No Longer the Star Employee?
Emotional intelligence has become an increasingly popular requirement among employers. In the Globe and Mail article, Emotional intelligence trumps technical know-how, the IT service company, Softchoice, boldly stated that a stronger emphasis on emotional intelligence (EQ) is required for today`s workplace.
An emerging trend among companies: hire employees for their attitude and then teach them skills during their careers. They want employees who are flexible, adaptable, and have the ability to inspire their co-workers. This is an enormous asset in the modern multi-generational/cultural workplace. An employee who can spread optimism within a team and empathize with people who may be in a different cohort is immensely valuable. Employee qualifications are changing. The technical knowledge that can be learned is no longer “hot property”. The emotional skills that are able to boost a team`s performance are significantly more valued than the technical skills that can only increase an individual`s performance.
At the same time, companies need to brand themselves as a strong company that can accommodate these emotionally intelligent employees. Great benefits, diverse career opportunities, and much more is needed to draw these individuals to companies.
