Humans have different qualities, many of which are linked to certain abilities. Emotional intelligence refers to the capabilities of individuals to read emotions better. In other words, an individual who is in a position to understand his own emotions and the emotions of others will be in a better position to take the right decision. The leadership qualities of individuals are often intrinsically linked to emotional intelligence. This is mainly a result of the ability to empathize, which in turn lens individuals with greater leadership qualities, better performance at the workplace and greater mental health.
Scientific studies that prove the link between EI and leadership qualities
Scientific studies have proven the link between emotional intelligence and leadership qualities. One of the most famous studies in this regard is the one by Goleman in 1998. It establishes the link between emotional intelligence and technical expertise in individuals. This has spurred a lot of research activity to identify the various markers of emotional intelligence. There are different tests that are available to understand the levels of emotional intelligence in humans. This helps businesses and organizations to be aware of the leadership qualities and abilities of prospects and existing employees. These tests in combination with psychometric analysis enable businesses to learn more about the suitability of employees and their careers.
What is the Emotional Intelligence test?
The EI Test (Emotional Intelligence Test) evaluates the participant across the four quadrants of emotional intelligence as put forth by Goleman in his famous paper. The four quadrants are self-awareness, social awareness, self-management and relationship management. A series of questions that test the individual’s ability in these four quadrants will help to understand more about the emotional quotient of the individual. These are the markers which will help to understand if an individual processes the leadership qualities and abilities, in addition to capabilities that will give greater expertise and improved job performance.
Important behaviors that the test attempts to understand
The test items to understand certain important behavior which includes the following:
- An individual’s ability to be able to self-comprehend their moods, and the effect of their moods on others with whom they interact.
- An individual’s ability to be in control of their moods, and the need for evaluating a decision before taking it.
- An individual’s inclination to work – this is mainly to assess if work is regarded only as a means to earn money, or if work is regarded as a passion and goal
- The ability of an individual to be able to quickly comprehend the emotions of others and handling relationships based on the emotions and reactions of others.
How each quadrant of the EI test assesses an individual?
The four quadrants of the EI test evaluate an individual for certain specific qualities. Here is a quick look at the more important assessment criteria.
- Self-awareness – in this test 3 competencies are assessed – emotional self-awareness, accurate self-assessment, and self-confidence. These three competencies will help to understand an individual’s ability to read emotions better, receive a realistic assessment of strength, and the extent of confidence and self-worth.
- Social awareness – this test 3 competencies are assessed – empathy, organizational awareness and service orientation. The combination of these three competencies will help an individual to understand the ability to be concerned about others, read situations correctly and meet the organizational needs.
- Self-management – in this test 5 competencies are assessed – self-control, transparency, adaptability, achievement orientation and initiative. The combination of these five competencies will help an individual to understand the ability to keep emotions under control, the ability to maintain high standards, the ability to be flexible to evolving situations, and the ability to take the right kind of initiatives at the most opportune moment to achieve goals and standards.
- Relationship management – in this test seven different competencies are assessed – visionary leadership, development of other individuals, influencing, ushering in change, conflict resolution, and teamwork. The combination of these 7 competencies helps an individual to be better equipped in relationship management. For instance, a visionary leader is one who can inspire others, while an individual who helps in the development of others will destroy the teams. Similarly, an influencer will be in a position to convince others, while a change catalyst will help teams to take up new ideas. Finally, conflict resolution and teamwork help individuals to resolve differences and build teams through active collaboration and cooperation.
An emotional intelligence test will help individuals to be fully aware of their capabilities. This will also help in guiding the career of individuals through development. For instance, an individual who is acutely aware of his or her limitations, will be in a better position to work towards overcoming those limitations. This, in turn, will help the individual to be a well-rounded professional at the workplace.