Emotional Intelligence in Business, a.k.a, How to Play Well With Others

Throughout most of my life as student, class participation was very highly valued.  From middle school through college, the comments at grading times were always something like this: 

"Emily is a very intelligent student and always completes her assignments with competence and insight. She should trust herself more to speak up regularly in class, because when she does, she always has great points to make.  She would benefit from more frequent contribution, as would her classmates."

This always drove me crazy.  I'm a visual learner who gleans the most from observing and listening, rather than talking in class all the time.  I was so frustrated with this kind of feedback from teachers; it made me think that my learning style wasn't as good, and not valued like the rest.  I eventually came to understand years later that this was a more pervasive issue than just in school -- many teachers, bosses, co-workers and even family members -- can easily forget about working and learning differences.  One way of doing things isn't always right or better. 

I've learned that the professional world is a replica of the classroom.  The louder opinions get noticed and leave a lasting impression in a work environment, while a more pensive, quieter way of working can be overlooked.  It's just the way of the world and human nature. 

As an adult, I've found ways to make this personality difference work in my favor.  Instead of feeling defeated by being quieter or more introspective, I've tried to find areas of my job that allow my emotional intelligence shine through instead.  Emotional intelligence is just as valuable as any other type-- mathematical, scientific, musical, social -- and in business there are so many ways to let this reign.  Most easily: communications, something I'm slowly mastering.  The ability to communicate well with the outside world as a representative of your brand and of your company, is invaluable.   Communications requires a certain level of attention, empathy, consideration of others' perspectives, plus patience and calm -- and of course, being a good listener, too.  In business large and small, relationships are just as important as capital. 

Some simple steps can be taken to recognize people's differences and to make it work for your business. To start, simply observing the habits of your team can help identify intelligence types.  Ask people what styles work best for them; demonstrate that different styles are valued.  Hold meetings in smaller groups, and/or consider implementing a more formal meeting structure to encourage equal participation.  The more conscious thought that is put into understanding your team and who they are as individuals, the better off your business will be.  Matching people's natural strengths to tasks and areas of responsibility is a recipe for success.   Simply keeping in mind that not everyone works the same way automatically puts you at the advantage.  We don't just have to respect one another's differences; we can value this diversity and turn it into business opportunity. 

Whether you are the leader or a team member, sometimes stepping outside of your comfort zone to recognize different styles in others or in yourself, illuminates opportunity for all.  Knowing to push yourself in this way and making it happen is another form of intelligence all together.