I'd look at it the other way around - EI can improve the quality and effectiveness of our communications.
Improving EI requires a combination of practice (self-learning) but also active feedback from others who can help us to become more self-aware and self-managing. The latter will certainly involve verbal communications.
Improving EI through communication involves active listening, self-awareness, empathy, and effective non-verbal communication. It also includes learning conflict resolution skills, practicing mindfulness, developing positive social skills, continuous learning, cultivating supportive relationships, and using empathetic communication techniques like reflective listening and open-ended questions. Regular self-reflection and openness to feedback are crucial for enhancing emotional intelligence in social interactions. Saving Changes...
Communication is a two way street; delivering a message as well as receiving a message. We need to enhance our ability to listen actively and express ourselves clearly. We also need to practice empathy and try to understand others' perspectives Saving Changes...
In addition to the above posts, I recommend having a good command of communication, both verbal and non-verbal, and practice. If someone is not born with emotional intelligence, it may take some time to build, but the good thing is it is a buildable intelligence.
Face-to-face interaction has the advantage of verbal and non-verbal communication in applying emotional intelligence and makes it easy to know more than what has been said. Since COVID-19, remote working is a new norm, and in-person interaction is compromised. So, know your client/stakeholder and their business well. Read what they did not say and be a value add. Saving Changes...
Thomas WalentaGlobal Project Economy ExpertHackenheim, Germany
Abolfazi gives a comprehensive answer to which I agree.
Also understanding the facets of empathy can increase your awareness and further development. There are affective (sensing the emotions of others in myself), cognitive (understanding behaviors, and biases), and social empathy (understanding communities and organizations).
And self-awareness is helpful, if you can identify emotions in yourself, you are able to see them in others.
From an ethical perspective, empathy requires the values of respect, compassion and humility, and fairness helps.
Empathy is also one of the 10 competencies that help to grow your wisdom and is supported by the competencies of being able to change perspectives and relativism of values. Saving Changes...
Antonio Villarruel Project Management Coordinator| Saputo Inc.Buenos Aires, Argentina
Hello Rosario,
One effective way to enhance emotional intelligence through communication is by practicing active listening. This involves giving your full attention to the speaker, making eye contact, and responding with empathy to not just the words spoken but also the underlying emotions. Saving Changes...
EI involves adequate communication between the person and other stakeholders that surround him. This can be achieved first with a personal introspection that allows the individual to know himself deeply, then, after this step, he is ready to advance with EI in the task of knowing and recognizing other's emotions and reactions, so, he can approach every individual according to their personality. Saving Changes...
David YackobowitzPM Specialist| Tobyhanna Army DepotArchbald, Pa, United States
EI is more about me being able to separate personal from professional when it comes to communicating. I can relate it to morals and ethics. Ethically I must treat all with dignity and respect even though I may personally disagree morally about certain decisions the individual makes. Saving Changes...
Markus KopkoAI Enabler for Project & Program Mgmt | Founder PMotion.ai / The PM
AI Coach| PMotion.aiHamburg, Hamburg, Germany
Dear Rosario,
In my over two decades of experience in project and program management, I've found that improving emotional intelligence (EI) through communication is beneficial and essential for successful leadership. Here are some strategies I've employed and recommend:
Active Listening involves full conversation engagement, ensuring comprehensive understanding and empathetic responses. It's not just about hearing but understanding the context and emotions behind words.
Self-awareness: It is crucial for leaders to recognize their own emotions and understand their impact on their interactions. This helps them adjust their approach to be more effective and empathetic.
Emotional Regulation: The ability to manage one's emotions, especially under pressure, is a key aspect of EI. Developing strategies to remain composed helps in maintaining professionalism and making objective decisions.
Empathy: Understanding and sharing others' feelings is a powerful tool. It goes beyond sympathy; it’s about truly comprehending others’ perspectives, which fosters a stronger, more respectful professional environment.
Clear and Respectful Communication: Articulating thoughts and emotions clearly and respectfully is fundamental. This helps build trust and minimize misunderstandings.
Feedback Reception and Delivery: A critical aspect of EI is how we handle feedback. Giving and receiving constructive feedback is a hallmark of a growth-oriented mindset.
Conflict Resolution: Recognizing that conflict is natural in any work setting, using EI to navigate these situations can transform challenges into opportunities for growth and problem-solving.
Continuous Learning and Adaptation: EI is a dynamic skill. Staying open to new perspectives and continuously reflecting on our interactions is vital for ongoing personal and professional development.
Incorporating these EI strategies in our communication enhances our leadership capabilities and sets a positive example, fostering a more emotionally intelligent and productive workplace. I believe these practices are indispensable for anyone aspiring to excel in project and program management.
