Emotional intelligence (EQ)
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Related KSBs
K15: Communication techniques and approaches.
K16: Ethics and values-based leadership theories and principles, for example employee wellbeing.
S6: Lead and influence the team and individuals to support an inclusive culture of equity, diversity, and the promotion of wellbeing.
S17: Manage relationships across multiple and diverse stakeholders.
B2: Supports an inclusive culture, treating colleagues and stakeholders fairly and with respect.
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In his book ‘Working with Emotional Intelligence’, Goleman developed the argument that non-cognitive skills (EQ) can matter as much as IQ.
(Goleman, 1998)
Breakout room discussion points:
• To what extent do you agree that EQ is as important as IQ in your professional context?
• Can you think of a situation where emotional intelligence achieved what technical skill or intellect alone could not?
• How does your organisation recognise or reward these ‘noncognitive’ capabilities?
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Where does Goleman’s model come from?
Salovey & Mayer (1990): The academic foundation
• Defined emotional intelligence as the ability to perceive, understand and manage emotions.
• Treated EQ as a measurable set of mental abilities.
Goleman (1995, 1998): The applied model
• Built on Salovey & Mayer’s theory and translated it into the workplace.
• Introduced five domains: self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy and social skills.
• Linked EQ to leadership effectiveness, wellbeing, and organisational performance.
Bridging science and practice
• Goleman’s work sits between psychology and leadership development - accessible, practical and widely adopted, though sometimes criticised for over-simplifying research findings.
Further reading: Positive Psychology and The Decision Lab
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Rolfe et al
The Rolfe et al. reflective model is a framework used to analyse experiences and guide future actions.
Developed in 2001 by Gary Rolfe and his colleagues, the model is based on three core questions: What?, So what?, and Now what?.
Initially created for healthcare practitioners, its simplicity has led to widespread use in various fields, including education and business.
Resource 5
Breakout room scenarios
Can emotional intelligence truly be taught, or is it something we’re born with?
Prepare a statement to complete the final sentence.
Resource 5
Taking this forward…reflection prompts
• Which situations in your current role challenge your emotional intelligence the most and why?
• What small, deliberate change could you make this month to strengthen one of Goleman’s 5 domains of EQ?
• How does your own emotional intelligence influence the climate or culture of your team?
• If EQ can be developed, what opportunities/practices in your organisation could help it grow further - for you and for others?