The Career Advantage You Didn’t Learn in School
In a job market increasingly driven by automation, remote collaboration, and complex interpersonal dynamics, the most in-demand skills aren’t necessarily the ones you studied at university.
While technical expertise and formal qualifications remain important, the edge that truly propels professionals forward is less about IQ and more about EQ – emotional intelligence.
EQ and Career Success
Emotional intelligence and career success are closely linked. From navigating office politics to managing stress and leading teams, EQ plays a decisive role in how individuals perform and progress.
Research suggests that emotional intelligence is responsible for nearly 58% of job performance across various roles and industries [1].
Besides, employers now prioritise emotional and social competencies as essential ingredients for effective leadership and teamwork [2].
Despite this, emotional intelligence often goes underdeveloped. It’s rarely part of formal education or job training, yet it quietly influences everything from how you’re perceived in meetings to whether you’re promoted or passed over. That’s why understanding the importance of emotional intelligence at work is more crucial now than ever.
We will explore the key ways emotional intelligence shapes your career trajectory, how it compares to technical skills, and how you can begin to develop it with intention.
Whether you’re a graduate starting out, a manager aiming to lead with empathy, or a professional looking to level up, mastering EQ might be your career’s secret weapon.
What Is EQ? A Quick Refresher
Before we explore how emotional intelligence drives career success, it’s worth revisiting what it actually means.
The term emotional intelligence, often abbreviated to EQ, refers to the ability to recognise, understand and manage your own emotions, while also being able to perceive and influence the emotions of others.
The concept gained traction through the work of psychologist Daniel Goleman [3], who identified five core components:
- Self- Awareness – recognising your own emotional states and their impact
- Self-regulation – controlling disruptive emotions and impulses
- Motivation – using emotional factors to achieve goals and remain resilient
- Empathy – understanding the emotions and perspectives of others
- Social skills – managing relationships and building networks effectively
These capabilities are not fixed traits but can be learned and developed.
In fact, building your Emotional Intelligence is one of the most effective ways to enhance your career over time.
Emotional intelligence ties closely to other critical workplace abilities.
For example, Self-Awareness Skills help you respond constructively to feedback, while Behavioural Skills ensure you maintain professionalism in challenging situations. Social Success is often the byproduct of strong emotional intelligence, allowing professionals to build trust, navigate office politics, and collaborate effectively across teams.
What separates high performers from the rest is often not what they know, but how they behave and respond under pressure.[4]
That’s where EQ steps in – a foundational capability that underpins many of the soft skills for career growth employers value most.
Why EQ Matters More Than IQ in the Workplace
Traditional thinking has long placed IQ – your cognitive intelligence – at the top of the hierarchy when it comes to career success.
It’s often assumed that technical skill, qualifications and raw intellect will naturally lead to high performance. But this isn’t always the case.
In reality, IQ may get you through the door, but it’s emotional intelligence that determines how well you perform once you’re in.
Numerous studies show that EQ, not IQ, is the strongest predictor of workplace success, particularly in roles involving teamwork, leadership and interpersonal communication.
According to research published by TalentSmart, people with high emotional intelligence outperform their peers 90% of the time, regardless of industry or job type [5]. That’s because emotional intelligence in the workplace influences how you manage stress, navigate conflict, build relationships, and make decisions – all of which are essential for thriving in modern work environments.
Let’s consider two professionals with similar technical abilities. One remains calm during high-pressure meetings, communicates clearly and resolves disputes diplomatically. The other becomes defensive, avoids feedback and struggles with collaboration. Over time, it’s clear which one is more likely to earn the trust of colleagues and be considered for promotion.
In fact, a growing number of employers rank EQ as more important than technical skills when hiring and evaluating talent [6]. They recognise that someone who brings empathy, adaptability and strong behavioural skills can often contribute more meaningfully than someone who is technically gifted but emotionally volatile.
According to a survey reported by Harvard Business School Online [6], 71 percent of employers value emotional intelligence over technical skills when evaluating candidates. Additionally, a report on GovLoop [7] referencing Harvard Business School states the same figure and context, reinforcing that EQ is increasingly prioritized in talent evaluation.
While intelligence helps you solve problems, emotional intelligence helps you solve problems with people, and in any professional setting – from startups to corporates – that distinction matters.
The Five Ways EQ Directly Impacts Career Growth
While emotional intelligence may feel intangible, its effects on career development are anything but. From building better relationships to leading high-performing teams, EQ has a direct and measurable impact on how far you can go in your career.
Here are five key ways in which emotional intelligence shapes long-term professional success:
1. Communication and Relationship-Building
Strong interpersonal communication is one of the most sought-after skills in the workplace.
People with high emotional intelligence tend to listen actively, respond thoughtfully and read non-verbal cues with ease.
This fosters trust and helps to build lasting working relationships across teams and departments.
Whether you’re presenting to stakeholders or mediating internal tensions, emotional intelligence helps you respond rather than react.
Over time, this contributes to being seen as dependable, composed and capable of leading others.
2. Leadership and Team Effectiveness
Managers with strong EQ often create more engaged and productive teams.
They know how to motivate different personality types, respond with empathy and encourage collaboration.
In fact, emotionally intelligent leaders are more likely to retain talent and achieve performance targets, according to data from the Center for Creative Leadership [8].
Good leaders understand the emotional climate of their team and adjust their approach accordingly.
This doesn’t just benefit team cohesion, it also boosts overall organisational health.
3. Decision-Making Under Pressure
In high-stakes environments, pressure can lead to snap judgments or defensive behaviour.
Professionals with well-developed self-awareness skills and self-regulation are more likely to pause, assess the situation and respond calmly. They do not let emotional reactivity cloud their judgement.
This composure is critical in senior roles, particularly when managing risk, dealing with clients or navigating organisational change.
4. Conflict Resolution and Workplace Harmony
Disagreements are inevitable in any organisation. The difference lies in how they’re handled.
Emotionally intelligent professionals are able to step back, empathise with multiple viewpoints and seek resolution without escalating tension.
These behavioural skills are especially important for those in client-facing, cross-functional or leadership roles.
Teams led by individuals with high EQ report lower turnover and higher job satisfaction, according to a 2020 meta-analysis published in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology [9].
5. Influence, Visibility and Career Advancement
Professionals with high EQ tend to be more socially attuned. They know when to speak, how to frame ideas for maximum impact, and how to read the room.
This increases their visibility in the organisation and often places them in front of key decision-makers.
These attributes support social success and are crucial for career advancement, especially in roles that require negotiation, persuasion and leadership.
By developing these five facets of emotional intelligence, you lay the foundation not just for performance, but for long-term career progression. EQ isn’t just a helpful add-on, it’s a career catalyst.
EQ and Leadership
The Role of EQ in Leadership and Promotions
Technical ability may land you the job, but it’s often emotional intelligence that secures your rise through the ranks.
As organisations flatten and rely more on cross-functional collaboration, the value placed on soft skills, empathy and people leadership is increasing sharply.
Professionals with high emotional intelligence are more likely to be promoted, trusted with greater responsibility and seen as strong leadership candidates.
In a widely referenced study by CareerBuilder, 71 percent of employers said they value emotional intelligence more than IQ, and 75 percent said they are more likely to promote someone with high EQ over someone with high IQ.
The same study revealed that 59 percent would not hire someone with high IQ but low EQ [10].
These numbers make sense when you consider the traits that define successful leaders. The ability to navigate stress, motivate others, resolve conflict and lead through change are all outcomes of emotional intelligence.
Managers who lack EQ may struggle with people management, performance feedback, and building cohesive teams.
A Harvard Business Review analysis also found that leaders who scored highly in emotional self-awareness and empathy were consistently ranked as more effective by their direct reports, regardless of role or seniority [11].
Additionally, emotionally intelligent leaders are better equipped to adapt to hybrid or remote team environments, where communication, trust and digital presence require even more conscious effort.
In this context, EQ becomes a competitive edge that separates managers from transformational leaders.
From first-time supervisors to executive roles, emotional intelligence is no longer a nice-to-have. It is essential for career advancement, and one of the few skills that remains universally valued across all industries, irrespective of changes in technology or market conditions.
EQ in Job Interviews and Performance Reviews
While EQ is often considered a long-term leadership trait, it plays a decisive role at two key career touchpoints: job interviews and performance reviews.
In both settings, how you handle feedback, demonstrate empathy and communicate under pressure can make or break your professional trajectory.
In Interviews: EQ Is Being Assessed, Even If Unspoken
Many employers assess emotional intelligence during interviews, even if they never use the term.
They observe how you speak about past challenges, how you respond to situational questions, and whether you demonstrate accountability or blame.
A LinkedIn Learning report found that interpersonal and emotional intelligence skills are increasingly being prioritised in recruitment, especially in roles involving collaboration and leadership.
“In fact, a growing number of employers rank EQ as more important than technical skills when hiring and evaluating talent.”
According to LinkedIn’s Global Talent Trends 2024 report, 69% of U.S. executives said they plan to prioritise candidates with strong soft skills, including emotional intelligence, when hiring new talent [12].
This confirms that EQ is increasingly treated as a core requirement alongside or above technical ability.
Recruiters often evaluate candidates based on their emotional awareness, communication style and ability to stay composed under pressure.
For instance, a candidate who can reflect on a workplace conflict and describe how they navigated it with empathy and clarity signals strong self-awareness skills.
Someone who acknowledges mistakes, rather than deflecting blame, shows maturity and emotional control.
In Performance Reviews: EQ Influences How You Are Perceived
When it comes to performance evaluations, emotional intelligence has a direct effect on how your contributions are received.
Employees with high EQ tend to receive better reviews not only for their output, but also for their attitude, adaptability and leadership potential.
According to a survey by TalentSmart, employees with high EQ are more likely to be rated as top performers and are better at handling constructive criticism, setting goals and collaborating with others [13].
Moreover, emotionally intelligent employees are more receptive to feedback, less defensive in conversations with supervisors and more consistent in demonstrating behavioural skills that build trust within teams.
In both interviews and reviews, these qualities set the tone for career progression. While technical performance can be measured, your emotional maturity is often what determines how you are remembered.
Can You Learn It? How to Develop Emotional Intelligence
Unlike IQ, which remains relatively stable over time, emotional intelligence is highly adaptable. It can be nurtured, refined and strengthened through self-awareness, deliberate practice and guided learning.
This is welcome news for professionals looking to advance their careers, as EQ is no longer viewed as a fixed trait but a teachable skill set.
Studies show that structured emotional intelligence training can lead to measurable improvements in self-regulation, empathy, and social interaction – all essential components of professional success.
In a 2019 meta-analysis published in the Human Resources Management Review, Department of Pyschology, Colorado State University researchers concluded that EQ training significantly improves interpersonal skills and overall job performance (14).
For those ready to develop their emotional intelligence, Skillogy’s Emotional Intelligence Course offers a practical and flexible solution.
The course is designed specifically for professionals who want to build stronger workplace relationships, communicate more effectively and lead with empathy.
It is accessible online and structured around real-world workplace scenarios, making it ideal for early-career professionals and seasoned leaders alike.
Not sure where to start?
Skillogy also offers a free online Emotional Intelligence Assessment, which takes just a few minutes to complete.
The EQ Baseline Assessment gives you instant insight into your current emotional awareness, control, and empathy levels. It’s a powerful first step toward self-improvement and career advancement.
As with any skill, development comes with effort and consistency.
By actively working on your behavioural skills and self-awareness skills, you’re not only investing in your current role, but positioning yourself for long-term growth across any career path.
Common Workplace Scenarios Where EQ Is Crucial
Emotional intelligence is not only relevant during performance reviews or promotions – it’s deeply embedded in the everyday rhythms of work.
EQ = Emotional Intelligence
From informal conversations to high-pressure meetings, EQ influences how people perceive you and how effectively you respond to challenges.
Here are five common workplace scenarios where emotional intelligence proves vital:
1. Handling Constructive Criticism
Professionals with strong self-awareness skills are more likely to accept feedback without becoming defensive.
Instead of reacting emotionally, they pause, reflect and use criticism as a tool for improvement.
This signals maturity and positions them as growth-oriented team members.
2. Navigating Team Tension
In high-stakes environments, conflicts and miscommunication are bound to arise.
Those who demonstrate empathy, patience and calm listening often play the role of informal mediators, helping to defuse tension and re-centre the group’s focus.
These behavioural skills contribute to a healthier workplace culture.
3. Leading Through Change
Periods of organisational change – mergers, restructures, leadership transitions – are emotionally charged.
Leaders with high EQ are better equipped to understand what their teams are feeling, acknowledge those concerns, and communicate in a transparent and reassuring way.
This builds trust and keeps teams engaged during uncertainty.
4. Responding to a Colleague’s Stress or Burnout
Emotional intelligence is essential in recognising when a colleague is overwhelmed, even if they don’t say it outright.
Small acts of empathy, offering support or checking in privately, can significantly improve morale.
A workplace built on emotional insight is one where people feel seen, not just measured.
5. Advocating for Yourself with Confidence
Whether it’s negotiating a raise or presenting a proposal, EQ helps you manage nerves, read the room and adjust your communication style accordingly.
People who are emotionally intelligent can advocate for themselves confidently without appearing aggressive or dismissive – a key ingredient for long-term social success.
In each of these scenarios, the value of emotional intelligence is not theoretical – it’s practical and visible.
Colleagues respect those who stay composed under pressure, take initiative to resolve conflict, and uplift the emotional tone of the team.
Developing these competencies through focused learning, such as Skillogy’s Emotional Intelligence Course, ensures that EQ becomes a daily strength rather than a hidden gap.
Final Word – The Future Belongs to Emotionally Intelligent Professionals
As industries continue to evolve, technical expertise is no longer enough to future-proof your career.
In a world shaped by automation, hybrid teams and constant change, emotional intelligence is emerging as one of the most valuable assets a professional can possess.
From early career roles through to executive leadership, emotional intelligence determines how well you manage relationships, adapt to new environments and lead with authenticity.
It influences how others perceive you, how you perform under pressure and how you seize opportunities for growth.
Employers are increasingly aware of this. In fact, a significant number now prioritise EQ over IQ when making hiring and promotion decisions [15].
What sets emotionally intelligent professionals apart isn’t perfection, but awareness.
They understand their triggers, regulate their responses and communicate with intent.
These skills not only enhance performance – they help build trust, loyalty and long-term success.
Fortunately, emotional intelligence can be developed at any stage in your career. Skillogy’s Emotional Intelligence Course is purpose-built to help you grow these capabilities through practical, workplace-relevant learning.
Whether you’re stepping into your first team role or preparing for leadership, the course gives you tools to engage more effectively, manage tension and lead with empathy.
Not sure where to begin? Start with the Free EQ Assessment.
In just a few minutes, you’ll gain valuable insights into your current emotional strengths and areas for development.
It’s a powerful first step toward aligning who you are with how you work – and positioning yourself for the future of leadership.
EQ Assessment
References, Sources and Citations
- Bradberry, T., & Greaves, J. (2009). Emotional Intelligence 2.0.
https://scholar.google.com/scholar?q=Bradberry,+T.,+%26+Greaves,+J.+(2009).+Emotional+Intelligence+2.0.+TalentSmart&hl=en&as_sdt=0&as_vis=1&oi=scholart - World Economic Forum. (2020). The Future of Jobs Report 2020. https://www.weforum.org/reports/the-future-of-jobs-report-2020
- Goleman, D. (1995). Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ. Google Books.
https://books.google.co.th/books/about/Emotional_Intelligence.html?id=XP5GAAAAMAAJ&redir_esc=y - Cherniss, C. (2000). Emotional Intelligence: What It Is and Why It Matters. Paper presented at the Annual Meeting of the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology, New Orleans.
https://www.eiconsortium.org/reports/what_is_emotional_intelligence.html - TalentSmart. (n.d.). Emotional Intelligence. Retrieved from: https://www.talentsmarteq.com/why-you-need-emotional-intelligence-to-succeed
- Harvard Business School. (2019). Why Emotional Intelligence is Important in Leadership. Retrieved from:
https://online.hbs.edu/blog/post/emotional-intelligence-in-leadership? - Govloop. (2025). What’s EQ Got To Do With It?. Retrieved from: https://www.govloop.com/community/blog/whats-eq-got-to-do-with-it/
- Center for Creative Leadership. Emotional Intelligence and Leadership Effectiveness: Bringing out the Best. Retrieved from: https://www.ccl.org/articles/leading-effectively-articles/emotional-intelligence-and-leadership-effectiveness/
- American Psychological Association. (2020). Journal of Occupational Health Psychology. Retrieved from:https://www.apa.org/pubs/journals/ocp
- PR Newswire. (2011). 71% of Employers Say They Value Emotional Intelligence Over IQ, According to CareerBuilder Survey. Retrieved from:
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/seventy-one-percent-of-employers-say-they-value-emotional-intelligence-over-iq-according-to-careerbuilder-survey-127995518.html - Harvard Business Review. (2018). Emotional Intelligence Has 12 Elements. Which Do You Need to Work On?
Retrieved from: https://hbr.org/2017/02/emotional-intelligence-has-12-elements-which-do-you-need-to-work-on - LinkedIn Learning. (2024). 4 takeaways from LinkedIn’s new Global Talent Trends Report. Retrieved from:
https://www.linkedin.com/business/talent/blog/talent-acquisition/global-talent-trends-2024 - TalentSmart. (2022). Why You Need Emotional Intelligence To Succeed. Retrieved from:
https://www.talentsmarteq.com/why-you-need-emotional-intelligence-to-succeed/ - Mattingly, V., & Kraiger, K. (2019). Can emotional intelligence be trained? A meta-analytical investigation (PDF). Elsevier.
Available at: https://iranarze.ir/storage/uploads/2018/04/E6871-IranArze.pdf - CareerBuilder. (2011). 71% of Employers Say They Value Emotional Intelligence Over IQ. Retrieved from: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/seventy-one-percent-of-employers-say-they-value-emotional-intelligence-over-iq-according-to-careerbuilder-survey-127995518.html
