Emotional intelligence in the workplace

Emotional intelligence is an essential component in the workplace, particularly within companies. This form of intelligence allows for constructive criticism, creating an atmosphere where diversity is appreciated rather than a source of conflict, and having the ability to work as part of a network of reciprocal connections.

Goleman asserts that feedback is fundamental in a company's life, enabling an exchange of information that allows individuals to know if their work is going well, needs modifications, requires improvement, or needs a complete reorganization.

Levinson (1992) provides the following advice on the "art" of criticism in companies:

- Be specific: precisely state what has been done well, what has been done wrong, and how it could be improved; being evasive is not functional for the company climate because this stance could confuse the real message.

- Offer a solution: criticism, like any useful feedback, should indicate a way to solve the problem; otherwise, the recipient remains frustrated, demoralized, or unmotivated. Criticism can help find possibilities and alternatives that the individual may not have thought existed, or simply sensitize them about deficiencies that require attention; in any case, it should include some suggestions on how to tackle these problems.

- Be present: criticisms, like praises, are effective when communicated privately in a face-to-face interaction. People who feel uncomfortable giving criticism or praise may find it more tolerable when sending these messages remotely, for example, in writing. However, this makes communication too impersonal and deprives the criticized or praised person of the opportunity to respond or seek clarification.

- Be sensitive: it's a call for empathy, an invitation to be in tune with others and to perceive the impact of what is said and how it is said on the person receiving the message. Leaders lacking empathy are more inclined to provide offensive feedback. The effect of such criticism is destructive; instead of opening a path to error correction, it generates a negative emotional reaction of resentment and bitterness that drives the individual to become defensive and maintain distance.

Unanswered questions fuel uncertainty, fear, and a tendency to have catastrophic thoughts. Moreover, they can lead people to reject feedback follow-up that they do not fully understand. The more complete information available, essential for decision-making, the better to establish an egalitarian relationship with everyone.

Courses such as meditation and yoga aim to achieve balance within oneself, being aware of emotional episodes in their development, and practicing a daily exercise that generates a state of deep relaxation.

A high emotional intelligence, being in tune with others, capable of listening and being heard, promotes relationship-centered care and recognizes that the interrelation between people is a significant factor.