What is included in the assessment

The assessment explores six key areas:

• Emotional intelligence in conversations

• Emotional intelligence in accountability

• Emotional intelligence in decision-making

• Emotional intelligence and inclusion

• Emotional intelligence and performance

• Emotional intelligence under pressure

Each section focuses on real leadership behaviours, not abstract theory.

Why emotional intelligence is important at work?

Emotional intelligence is important because leadership is not only about tasks and outcomes. It is about how people experience work.

Research suggests that emotionally intelligent leadership is associated with:

• higher engagement

• better feedback conversations

• improved team performance

• lower turnover

(Gallup, 2019, 2026a; Center for Creative Leadership, 2023). However, emotional intelligence is most effective when it is connected to: clear expectations, inclusive decision-making and consistent accountability.

Can emotional intelligence be learned?

Yes, emotional intelligence can be developed. Research suggests it improves through: reflection, feedback, practice in real situations, coaching and applied learning (Mayer et al., 2016; Pfeffer & Sutton, 2000). This is why this assessment focuses on behaviour and application, not just knowledge.

Emotional intelligence examples in leadership:

In practice, emotional intelligence in leadership can look like:

• addressing a performance issue clearly while maintaining respect

• recognising emotional dynamics in a team and responding intentionally

• including different perspectives in decision-making

• managing conflict without avoiding it

• balancing empathy with accountability

FAQ

What is emotional intelligence? Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognise, understand, and manage emotions in yourself and others.

What is emotional intelligence in leadership? Emotional intelligence in leadership refers to how leaders use emotional awareness, empathy, and judgement in communication, decision-making, and managing people.

Why is emotional intelligence important at work? It supports communication, engagement, inclusion, and performance by improving how people interact, make decisions, and respond to challenges.

What is an emotional intelligence test? An emotional intelligence test is a tool used to assess how individuals recognise, understand, and respond to emotions. This assessment focuses specifically on how emotional intelligence shows up in leadership practice.

How can I improve emotional intelligence? Emotional intelligence can be improved through reflection, feedback, coaching, and applying learning in real workplace situations.

Is emotional intelligence more important than IQ? Both are important. IQ supports technical problem-solving, while emotional intelligence supports communication, relationships, and leadership effectiveness.

What are emotional intelligence skills? Common skills include self-awareness, emotional regulation, empathy, communication, and relationship management.

Definitions

• Emotional intelligence: The ability to recognise, understand, and respond to emotions.

• Emotional intelligence at work: The application of emotional intelligence in workplace situations such as communication, feedback, and decision-making.

• Emotional intelligence leadership: Leadership that integrates emotional awareness, communication, and relational understanding to support people and performance.

• Emotional intelligence test: A tool used to assess how emotional intelligence is understood and applied in practice.