“It is very important to understand that emotional intelligence is not the opposite of intelligence, it is not the triumph of heart over head — it is the unique intersection of both.”

– David Caruso, PhD, Co-founder EI Skills Group

Manage Emotions

Did you know?

Emotionally intelligent employees are more likely to persevere, meet goals and get along with others. While “technical skills’ are important, in today’s workplace “relationship skills” are essential. Emotional Intelligence (EI) is defined as one’s ability to understand and effectively manage one’s own emotions as well as a capacity to understand the emotions, needs, and concerns of others. And, as Google recently learned in its Aristotle project, some of these same principles can impact a groups’ collective intelligence. Specifically, communication and empathy were key components in the work groups that thrived. Today’s activity will introduce students to an EI vocabulary with relevance to the classroom, the workplace and beyond.

Do this…

• Ask students a few questions. Find out what they already know about EQ.

What does IQ stand for? (Intelligence Quotient)
What does EQ stand for? (Emotional Quotient)
Why would EQ be important to employers? (Those with high EQ are more productive, effective, and successful.)

• View video.
• Review some of the important information in the video clip.

What does EI stand for? (Emotional Intelligence)

What are the four areas of EI?
What happens in schools that have EI programs?
What happens to a person’s EI as he/she grows and develops?

• Distribute the Student Activity (now in fillable pdf form), review directions and complete.
• Review and discuss the correct answers:
  1,k; 2,f; 3,e; 4,d; 5,g; 6,b; 7,h; 8,a; 9,o; 10,m; 11,j; 12,i; 13,l; 14,n; 15,c

Get Real!

Have students identify one or two traits they would like to work on for a week. Then, give them a chance to report back the class on the outcome.  For more strategies on building Emotional Intelligence, here’s a short guide to start making emotions work for you, not against you.