The Importance of IQ: Sternberg (1996) found that across studies, the importance of IQ varies from 4% to 25% in predicting performance, and that 10% may be the realistic estimate.
The Importance of EQ: Emotional intelligence is not a new concept. Thorndike mentioned social intelligence in 1937, and EQ skills have their roots in social psychology. Daniel Goleman pointed out that psychologists have studied the skills associated with emotional intelligence for years, and the body of research suggests that these skills are linked to success in life.
EQ at Work: EQ alone isn’t the most direct predictor of job performance (Goleman, 1998; Mayer, Salovey, & Caruso, 1998), but EQ skills provide the foundation for the soft skills that are. For example, the ability to identify and understand what another person is feeling boosts a person’s ability to influence. Similarly, people who are aware of their emotional and physical reactions to pressure will find it easier to structure and manage their time to their advantage.
EQ Development: Since the 1990s, neuroscience research discovered the plasticity of the brain. Practicing high-‐EQ behaviors helps form new neural connections in the brain, cementing learning and behavior change. This explains how people increase their EQ.
