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Why Is Emotional Intelligence Important for Leaders?

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Emotional Intelligence (EI) has been a key focus in leadership research for over 30 years, gaining widespread recognition in the late 1990s. Today, developing emotionally intelligent leaders is more critical than ever, as businesses strive to retain top talent, foster innovation, and drive sustainable growth.

So, how does Emotional Intelligence relate to leadership?

Studies show that leaders consistently score higher in EI than the general population. This is because strong leadership relies on core EI competencies such as self-awareness, empathy, decision-making, and stress management. Rather than focusing on abstract leadership traits, many professionals find it more effective to develop specific, measurable EI skills—which is where the EQ-i 2.0® and EQ 360® assessments become invaluable.

These scientifically validated tools break down Emotional Intelligence into actionable sub-scales, allowing leaders to identify strengths, target areas for growth, and enhance their overall leadership impact. By improving emotional intelligence, leaders can cultivate stronger teams, navigate challenges with resilience, and create a workplace culture that attracts and develops top talent.

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The EQ-i 2.0 Emotional Intelligence Assessment

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The EQ-i 2.0 is the world’s most rigorously tested and scientifically validated Emotional Intelligence (EI) assessment, trusted by organisations globally to drive meaningful change. Unlike generic or self-developed EI tests, the EQ-i 2.0 is a true psychometric tool, backed by extensive research and continuous refinement.

This assessment evaluates 15 EI competencies across five key areas: self-perception, self-expression, interpersonal relationships, decision-making, and stress management. What sets it apart is its holistic approach, analysing how these competencies interact and identifying areas of imbalance. It doesn’t simply label high scores as good and low scores as bad—it focuses on balance and how strengths or gaps impact real-world performance.

How the EQ-i 2.0 Assessment Process Works

• Online Self-Assessment
  • The EQ-i 2.0 is a self-report questionnaire completed online.
  • It consists of 133 questions, typically taking 20-30 minutes to complete.
  • Questions assess various aspects of emotional intelligence based on real-life behaviours and experiences.
• 15 EI Competencies Across 5 Composite Areas
  • The EQ-i 2.0 measures five key areas of Emotional Intelligence:
    • Self-Perception – Understanding oneself, self-confidence, and personal growth.
    • Self-Expression – Communicating emotions effectively and assertively.
    • Interpersonal – Building relationships, empathy, and social responsibility.
    • Decision-Making – Problem-solving, impulse control, and reality testing.
    • Stress Management – Coping with stress, adaptability, and resilience.
• Personalised Report & Analysis
  • The results generate a detailed report highlighting strengths, areas for improvement, and how competencies interact.
  • Scores are compared to a global norm group, offering benchmark insights.
  • The report provides strategies for developing Emotional Intelligence.
• Debrief with a Certified Practitioner
  • A certified EQ-i 2.0 coach reviews the results in a 1:1 debrief session.
  • Together, the individual and coach explore key insights, blind spots, and an action plan.
  • The assessment can be used for personal development, leadership growth, or team training.

Why Take the EQ-i 2.0?

• Gain Deeper Self-Awareness – Understand your emotional strengths and areas for development.
• Improve Leadership & Communication – Learn how your EI profile affects team dynamics, decision-making, and conflict resolution.
• Enhance Resilience & Performance – Identify stress triggers and develop strategies to maintain emotional balance under pressure.
• Achieve Measurable Business Impact – Companies using the EQ-i 2.0 have reported improved leadership, higher customer satisfaction, and significant financial gains.