Emotional intelligence is a skill that enables you to better understand people. It’s a fundamental aspect to strengthening personal and business relationships.
Whether you are a writer hoping to gauge your audience and what they want to read, or the creative director for a progressive company, emotional intelligence will help you plan and implement your sales and marketing strategies.
The Four Aspects of Emotional Intelligence
Consumers often go back to their instinctual sensory responses when it comes to making important decisions. No matter how much information lies in front of them, when situations become unpredictable or people are unable to commit, they will rely on their instincts.
If your emotional intelligence is not up to par, you are officially not connecting the dots. Understanding people and what makes them buy or stay loyal to your brand is key. Successful companies understand that consumer loyalty is built on relationship building and trust. The following four aspects of emotional intelligence will help you determine the best approach for all of your business endeavors.
Self-Awareness– How is your behavior effected by your emotions? Do you understand what makes you buy, walk away, or inquire more from a company? Self-awareness will always help you in every relationship you encounter. You might not be a fan of self-help books, but if you are dealing with people on a regular basis it is beneficial that you understand yourself. What are your goals? What do you believe in, and most importantly, what do you value in other people?
Social Awareness- Do you understand the cues of other people when you are in a large group? If you are on the podium and the entire audience is yawning, you need to work the crowd to keep their interest. If you are not aware of how people’s physical responses indicate their emotional states, you can miss important opportunities to win over your audience and gain their loyalty. Perhaps it is time to step down from the podium, and revert to understanding self-awareness to strengthen this skill.
Relationships- How are your relationships overall? Not just romantic or personal, but team and co-worker relationships? Do you know how to work well in a group of people? Are you able to get your point across clearly without being misunderstood? Relationships are cornerstone to a strong team and consumer loyalty. Are you a leader, a follower, and most importantly, do you know how to manage conflict?
Self-Control – Do you have a firm grip on your behavior and reactions? Acting on impulses is not always the best path when dealing with other people. If you are not fully aware of yourself and your social circle, you can miss the boat in forming valuable relationships with your consumers and your partners.
Adapting to your environment is key in the chaotic and often unpredictable world of business. In order to gain your consumer’s trust, you must have the ability to deliver on all of your commitments in a timely manner. Don’t let impulses steer you off course. In other words, never over-promise and under deliver.
Understanding and utilizing these four aspects of emotional intelligence will strengthen your bonds with everyone you encounter and help you overcome relationship challenges.
