Never Mind IQ. Here’s Why EQ and AQ Are More Important

As artificial intelligence and automation continue to transform the nature of work, researchers predict that 50% of employees across the world will need to upskill or reskill by 2025. But the most desirable competencies for the next few years might surprise you. 

While you might think that coding and data analysis would be frontrunners, the World Economic Forum has actually placed a great deal of emphasis on soft skills – capabilities like critical thinking, collaboration and flexibility. 

In other words, to thrive in the workplace of tomorrow, we all need to boost our emotional quotient (EQ) and adversity quotient (AQ) muscles. 

EQ and AQ: what you need to know 

Gone are the days when the intelligence quotient (IQ) was relied upon as a predictor of success. These days, organizations have wised up to the fact that other forms of human intelligence are far more valuable in the workplace. They now look to EQ and AQ in everything from hiring decisions to team formation to promotions. 

EQ is emotional intelligence. It refers to a range of competencies that help us  regulate our emotions, understand our emotional experiences and relate to others. At Truity, we've conducted extensive research on emotional intelligence and developed a test that assesses EQ based on five key competencies: self-awareness, awareness of others, empathy, emotional control and wellbeing. For a deep dive into each of these, read this article. 

AQ is an adversity quotient. This lesser-know acronym measures our ability to adapt and thrive amidst change. It's a plethora of skills that enable us to unlearn what’s no longer useful, find inner motivation to overcome challenges and see the opportunities in disruption. It encompasses traits like flexibility, resilience, problem-solving and courage.

EQ and AQ are so important that 60% of hiring managers say they wouldn’t hire someone with a high IQ but low EQ, while a McKinsey study found people proficient in adaptability are 24% more likely to be employed. 

Given the current climate, it’s easy to see why. With automation taking over repetitive tasks in the workplace, the way people relate to each other has never been so important. In this new paradigm, people that thrive will be those that can inspire best in others and themselves. For this, emotional intelligence is vital.

At the same time, the change brought about by technology will undeniably require resilience and flexibility. We’ve entered a very interesting, fast-changing chapter in the world of work. Technology seemingly knows no bounds and businesses – and their people – need to seize the opportunity or risk being left behind. 

How to improve your EQ and AQ 

The great news is that EQ and AQ can be honed and improved. Even if you think you’re change-averse or struggle with understanding other people’s emotions, you can learn to get better with practice. Here’s how to get started. 

Tips to boost EQ

Below are some quick-start ways to work on your EQ: 

• Embrace self-discovery 

A considerable part of EQ is self-awareness: accurately understanding what you feel, why you feel that way and the ability to regulate difficult emotions. A great way to discern how you fair in these areas, and all aspects of EQ, is by taking an EQ test. By finding out your EQ strengths and weaknesses, you can then develop a strategy for improvement. 

• Try to read between the lines 

When you speak with friends or colleagues, are you genuinely listening to what they say and reading their body language, or are you coming up with a reply in your mind? The former is a hallmark of EQ. Next time you’re speaking with someone, try to understand not just what they’re saying but their underlying emotions and needs. 

• Master the art of feedback 

Feedback is crucial to workplace growth and learning, but most of us find it unpleasant to give and receive. Strengthening your EQ involves becoming better at feedback. When receiving it, be conscious of your emotions and avoid taking criticism personally. When delivering feedback, aim for sincerity and be data-specific to make your comments as helpful as possible. 

• Stay extra aware when stressed

Stress can majorly dent our EQs, limiting our capacity to understand ourselves and empathize with the people around us. Of course, stress is inevitable. Your aim is not to avoid stress but to better understand your triggers and reactions. By knowing this, you can better manage tricky feelings and preserve your EQ during difficult times.

Tips to boost AQ

The Oz Principle is one of the best-known books on AQ. In it, the authors introduce the Steps to Accountability model, which is a great framework for navigating change and heightening your AQ. Here’s how to use it. 

• See It. Understand the need for change.

The first step is recognizing the need for change, making preparations to embrace it and being open and honest with the people around you. To excel at this step, actively seek different perspectives by asking questions about the proposed change and gathering constructive feedback. 

• Own It. Take responsibility for the situation.

As humans, we’re almost hardwired to resist change, but this ambivalence only stops us from growing. With that in mind, taking ownership of the change in front of you is crucial. Acknowledge that challenges and setbacks may arise, but persevere as you move towards your new way of working. 

• Solve It. Develop your action plan.

Solving it is about finding solutions to the challenges hindering your desired change. In the context of automation and work, for example, this could look like proactively acquiring more soft skills by taking online courses, networking with new people in your industry or starting a side hustle to diversify your income stream. 

• Do It. Implement the change.

The final step is all about springing into action, following through on your plans and remaining accountable. This step will challenge you to develop grit and perseverance in the face of setbacks. In other words, it’s where your AQ muscle will really start to grow! 

Summing up 

In our rapidly changing world, honing your EQ and AQ are two surefire ways to future-proof your job prospects, improve your relationships and boost your wellbeing. By taking the time to understand yourself, connect deeply with others and enhance your internal resilience, you’ll feel able to take on whatever comes your way with courage.