Why Smart Doesn't Automatically Equal Job Promotion

by Michelle Wright


Are you the smart one or subject matter expert? Were you up for a promotion that went to someone you are smarter or have more technical expertise than? Why doesn't the smart one automatically get the job promotion? Let’s start with your EQ versus your IQ. Your IQ measures your intelligence but EQ refers to your emotional intelligence. Emotional intelligence has often been called the “right stuff” - that certain something special that makes one stands out in the crowd. Intelligence, analytical skills, and technical expertise are fundamental - true. At the same time, the one with solid but maybe not extraordinary skill and mastery of the art of emotional intelligence excels.

Emotional intelligence focuses on interpersonal skills, how you interact with others and how your interactions influence others. There are five components of emotional intelligence self-awareness, self regulation, social skills, motivation, and empathy; Its easy way to remember: 3s’s and ME.

  1. Self-awareness

    Self confident, deep understanding of their strengths and weakness, open and frank in their communications. The ability to read the emotions and drives of others as well as their effect on others.

  2. Self regulation

    Willingness to learn new things, optimistic, open to change. The ability to think before acting and to be flexible.

  3. Socially adept

    A relationship extender, able to network, persuade and influence others. Expert in building and managing teams.

  4. Motivated

    Driven to achieve, passionate in their endeavors, able to see the positive in failure.

  5. Empathetic

    A relationship builder, able to determine the needs of others - perceptive. A good listener.
The co-worker with the high degree of emotional intelligence focuses on their strengths, influence on others, achieving goals, building a network of people to strengthen their weaknesses, and determining the needs of others.