With the advent of artificial intelligence and other recent inventions, we’re at the precipice of a new technological revolution. Automation has already swept through most of the labour market, leaving many to question the role of humans in the near future. 

The Covid-19 pandemic shook the world, and we’re still reeling from its effects, but there have been silver linings as well. For example, the world largely adapted to remote working, opening up opportunities to workers they never had before. 

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The Rising Demand for Soft Skills 

In this period of immense upheaval, it’s necessary not to lose sight of the heart and soul of the global economy, the people in it. People are, by nature, emotional creatures; this isn’t necessarily a bad thing. However, when intelligence becomes increasingly artificial, perhaps more human emotions are precisely what the global industry needs. 

Business leaders are already starting to take notice of how important soft skills are. Recent polls suggest leaders now value good communication skills, integrity and empathy above traditional skills sought after on the labour market. In a 2016 study by Harvard, it was noted that empathy was a more important factor for workers than ever before. 

Managing Director of Cerberus Sentinel, Christian Espinosa believes emotional intelligence could be the secret weapon in the war against cybercrime. To this end, he has written a book that business leaders can use as a guide to cultivating an emotionally intelligent workforce. 

How Emotional Intelligence Boosts Productivity

Adaptability 

Adaptability has always been a valuable asset for workers, and only more so as the technology around us evolves at a more rapid pace than ever before. High emotional intelligence is directly linked to one’s ability to adapt. Likewise, business leaders want to know that the people they hire will respond positively to change, embracing innovation to bring about new ideas that can help push the business and the market. 

Communication Skills 

One’s empathy is a major determining factor in their ability to communicate. People with high emotional intelligence can effectively adapt how they share based on the situation, the people they’re speaking to, and the desired outcome of the conversation. In addition, self-awareness allows high EQ individuals to listen better to what others are saying and provide well-reasoned responses. 

Conflict Resolution

It’s not uncommon for conflicts to occur and tensions to rise in the workplace, with so many experienced individuals who believe they know the right way to get a job done. High EQ individuals are often able to act as natural-born mediators of conflict. Their self-awareness allows them to be the master of their own emotions and reach a resolution suitable for everyone involved. 

Self-Motivation

 There is evidence to suggest that intrinsic motivation and a high EQ are directly correlated. High EQ individuals aren’t afraid to take the initiative in the workplace, and they don’t need external incentives to push them to get the job done. Being intrinsically motivated also gives high EQ people the ability to be skilled leaders, as they can motivate others around them. 

Closing Words

As we enter uncharted waters, it’s hard to pin down what skills will be most useful in the future of business. New technologies and ways of conducting work are always at the forefront, but if we work together from a place of understanding and empathy, the future is sure to be a brighter one. Want to know more about Christian Espinosa and his book? Visit his website or any of his social media channels (Facebook, Twitter)