Emotional Intelligence Quotient (EQ) and Leadership Skills

Today's blog is by Paulette Janus, founder of Janus Behavioral Health Services.  

She is one of our featured speakers at our breakfast workshop on August 26th entitled 

"Soft Skill Development for the Woman Business Leader."

You have most likely heard that someone is a “born leader.” Yet, what makes someone a leader versus a follower, an employee, a boss, or a manager? And what differentiates a leader from a great leader? Research has shown that one factor that distinguishes the most effective leaders is their level of Emotional Intelligence Quotient (EQ). 

EQ is defined, not by what you know, but by the ability to understand and manage your emotions and those around you. This quality encompasses a variety of skills, such as the ability to manage relationships, navigate social networks, and influence and inspire others.

While your technical skills may get your foot in the door, your people skills are what enable you to walk through that door. Your work ethic, your attitude, your communication skills, your emotional regulation, and a whole host of other personal attributes are the soft skills that are crucial for career success. Think about which assistant you are likely to promote: the one whose attitude is positive and upbeat, and who is always willing to help or the one who is inflexible, barely smiles, and appears defensive?

EQ encompasses:

1. Self-Awareness: Having an honest and realistic understanding of your emotions, values, goals, motivations, strengths, and weaknesses.
2. Self-Regulation: Managing and controlling your emotions and impulses, particularly frustration, anger, and fear, and even channeling them in a positive direction.
3. Motivation: Being driven by the desire to achieve beyond expectations for the sake of achievement.
4. Empathy: Recognizing and considering the feelings, motivations, values, strengths, and weaknesses of others when making decisions.
5. Social Skills: Being friendly, finding common ground, and building rapport with a purpose of moving others in the direction you desire.

Every individual possesses these skills to a certain degree yet they are not static traits. They are characteristics that can be developed and honed. Do you want to learn how to enhance your EQ and be a standout leader? Join KOS on Wednesday August 26^th for a breakfast workshop "Soft Skill Development for the Woman Business Leader." Please RSVP to Kristin Kentra at kkentra@koscpa.com.

Paulette Janus, LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and founder of Janus Behavioral Health Services. Paulette has over 15 years experience providing individual, couples, and family psychotherapy, specializing in children, teens, and families. She is also trained in and provides alternative dispute resolution interventions including family/divorce mediation, collaborative divorce coaching and child specialist services, and co-parent coaching. Paulette received her Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from Northwestern University and her Master of Social Work degree from the University of Illinois Chicago. www.janusbhs.com