Magic: The Gathering discussion and analysis

¶ … Former Manager on Each of the Five Components of Emotional Intelligence

My current manager's self-awareness is just perfect for the job position he holds. He has a good self-confidence which is apparent when he communicates. He also has a good sense of humor, in that once in a while he breaks serious moments with funny comments. This, I believe is a good way of relieving stress at work. He also has a good self-regulation wherein in every project that we do he always ensures that things are right before actions are taken. Making impulsive decision is definitely not in his vocabulary. Although he considers proper planning before any action is taken, he is still open for any changes as long as they are for the betterment of work.

My manager's self-motivation is similarly excellent. I can say that he doesn't work just for money because he demonstrates a hardworking personality. His commitment to the organization is apparent in coming early to office and working late most of the time. His empathy for others, however, is lacking. He is too strict that sometimes he tends to be insensitive and close-minded concerning his peoples' points-of-view. In terms of his social skills, particularly in the ability to lead people, I assess him to be in the average level. His lack of empathy for others sometimes deteriorates his social skills as an effective manager.

How can you apply the principles of emotional intelligence to your current situation?

I believe that the principles of emotional intelligence can help me a lot in motivating and leading my team. Applying these principles will help me promote good leadership to my members which can then facilitate good working relationship with them. Before I am able to lead my team, it is important that I practice the principle of self-awareness. I must demonstrate to my members that I am confident in performing my role as a leader and that I am aware of the good characteristics that a leader must have. Similarly, demonstrating self-motivation through eager performance of tasks may help me encourage every individual in my team to perform the same.

Social skills will be necessary for me to connect to the individuals in my team. Building good communication and rapport with them is one way of establishing good work relationship. Another way to connect to the individuality of my team members is through empathy. It is important to acknowledge the diversity of every individual in my team by understanding their differences, culture, and personality.

What can organizations do to help develop the emotional intelligence of their managers as well as other employees?

An organization can create training programs or seminars meant for developing the managers' and employees' emotional intelligence. Such programs may either focus on team-building exercises or individual exercises in which the employees can test and improve their emotional intelligence.