The critical distinguishing factor for advancing in the professional services is emotional intelligence (EQ)
- Without EQ it is likely that you will be your firm’s best-kept secret
- EQ is the ability to monitor your own and others people’s emotions
- According to a 2013 study by American express, EQ is one of the biggest predictors of performance in the workplace and a strong driver for leadership and personal excellence
- It is practice through listening, remaining calm and resilient in the face of problems, valuing and helping colleagues and connecting and emphasizing with clients
- Performance reviews emphasis firm and team contribution farther than individual performance
- Focus on listening. listen to understand issues, ask questions, don’t listen to respond
- Networking is key to identifying new opportunities and advancing your career and requires EQ
- EQ as a core skill matters more than ever because work has changed in ways that favor emotional competence and soft skills