Small Business Glossary and Definitions

Emotional Intelligence (also called “emotional quotient”) is a person’s capability to see their own emotions, as well as those of others and to tell the difference various feelings and describe appropriately. It also involves using emotional information to direct behavior and thinking and adjust or manage emotions based on the environments or one’s desired goals. The term first was used in a paper by Michael Beldoch that was published in 1964. It was popularized by a 1995 book written by Daniel Goleman.

Some research shows people with high emotional intelligence have better job performance and leadership skills, along with better mental health. Critics maintain those advantages are due more to personality traits.