In today’s fast-paced professional world, technical skills alone aren’t enough to achieve success. Daniel Goleman’s “Working with Emotional Intelligence” builds upon his groundbreaking work in emotional intelligence, specifically applying these concepts to the workplace. Published in 1998 and continuously relevant today, this book explores how emotional competencies drive outstanding performance in the professional arena. Goleman presents compelling research showing that up to 90% of the difference between star performers and average ones in senior leadership positions can be attributed to emotional intelligence factors.
Core Concepts
The book revolves around the five key components of emotional intelligence in the workplace:
- Self-awareness: Understanding your emotions, strengths, weaknesses, values, and motivations
- Self-regulation: Managing disruptive emotions and adapting to changing circumstances
- Motivation: Pursuing goals with energy and persistence beyond money or status
- Empathy: Understanding other people’s emotional makeup
- Social skills: Building networks and managing relationships effectively
These components are broken down into twenty-five emotional competencies that Goleman argues are not innate talents but learned abilities that can be developed and improved.
Chapter-by-Chapter Review
The New Yardstick
Goleman introduces the concept of emotional intelligence as a crucial factor in workplace success, supported by research from hundreds of organizations. He demonstrates how traditional measures of intelligence (IQ) are insufficient predictors of professional success.
Emotional Competencies
This section delves into the twenty-five emotional competencies, organized under the five main components. Each competency is explained with real-world examples and practical applications.
Self-Mastery
Here, Goleman explores how understanding and managing our own emotions creates the foundation for professional excellence. The chapter includes strategies for developing self-awareness and emotional self-control.
Working with Others
This portion focuses on the social aspects of emotional intelligence, showing how empathy and relationship management drive collaboration and leadership effectiveness.
Organizational Applications
The final sections provide frameworks for implementing emotional intelligence principles at an organizational level, including hiring practices, training programs, and performance management.
Key Strengths
- Extensive research backing all major concepts
- Practical examples from diverse professional settings
- Clear frameworks for developing emotional competencies
- Actionable strategies for immediate implementation
- Comprehensive assessment tools for self-evaluation
Potential Drawbacks
- Some concepts may seem obvious to those already familiar with emotional intelligence
- The abundance of case studies might feel repetitive for some readers
- Implementation of some strategies requires significant time investment
Who This Book Is For
This book is particularly valuable for:
- Managers and leaders looking to enhance their effectiveness
- Professionals seeking career advancement
- HR professionals responsible for talent development
- Anyone interested in improving their workplace relationships and performance
Final Review
“Working with Emotional Intelligence” provides an invaluable framework for understanding and developing the competencies that drive professional success. The book’s comprehensive approach to emotional intelligence in the workplace makes it a crucial resource for anyone serious about career advancement.
Rating: 4.6/5
This book stands as a fundamental guide for developing the emotional competencies essential for professional excellence.
Alternative Books
If you enjoyed this book, consider these related titles from our book list:
“Emotional Intelligence” by Daniel Goleman
The original groundbreaking work that introduces the concept of emotional intelligence and its importance in life.
Rating: 4.5/5
“Dare to Lead” by Brené Brown
Explores how courage and vulnerability play crucial roles in effective leadership.
Rating: 4.7/5
“Crucial Conversations” by Kerry Patterson et al.
Provides tools for handling high-stakes communications effectively in professional settings.
Rating: 4.6/5
