August 2023 Volume 5

OPERATIONS & MANAGEMENT

The Baron EQ/I assessment looks at emotional intelligence. Emotional-social intelligence encompasses an array of emotional and social competencies that determine how effectively we understand and express ourselves, relate to others, and respond to demands, challenges, and pressure. This assessment looks at interpersonal, intrapersonal, stress management, adaptability, and general mood. Emotional intelligence impacts all areas of life and all types of relationships, so gaining an understanding of emotional intelligence can help an individual focus on goals that are right for them and align with positions and relationships that will match their needs and output. Companies can utilize this assessment to identify the EQ/I of their candidates and employees, as well as use it as a foundation for ongoing training and development. Leaders with high emotional intelligence relate better and communicate more effectively allowing them to best represent the company. While there is a great deal of available research on these assessments, there is always room for gaining a better understanding of the areas and personal factors discussed, as well as how these assessments can create a foundation for change. There is the mindset of learning more about oneself, so you can work with what you have, but there is also the mindset of constant improvement, and nothing is permanent. Companies may use these assessments to determine if someone is a good fit for their organization or a specific position. However, they can’t view the assessment results as static because individuals willing to learn are constantly growing and enhancing their ability to fulfil the roles they are pursuing. Assessments focus on attributes that individuals may not be able to demonstrate in an interview or on their resume. However, they are attributes that are highly valuable in leadership roles and should be focused on when investing in a leader. It is no secret that poor leadership often leads to high turnover, which is a significant expense for many large companies. Investing time and resources into finding and developing the best possible leaders will provide immense long term benefits. References: Bharwaney, G., Bar-On, R., and MacKinlay, A. (2011). EQ and the bottom line: Emotional intelligence increases individual occupational performance, leadership and organizational productivity. Ei World Limited. https://www.eiconsortium.org/pdf/Bharwaney_BarOn_ MacKinlay_EQ_and_Bottom_Line.pdf The Myers-Briggs Company. (2022). California Psychological Inventory (CPI). https://www.themyersbriggs.com/en-US/Products-and-Services/ CPI

Melanie Williamson is a psychologist and organizational consultant living in Vermilion, Ohio. She earned her Master of Arts in Psychology from Grand Canyon University and is a certified meditation instructor and group facilitator. She can be reached by email at mjwilliamson102481@ gmail.com.

Ray Harkins is the Quality and Technical Manager for Ohio Star Forge in Warren, Ohio. He earned his Master of Science from Rochester Institute of Technology and his Master of Business Administration from Youngstown State University. He also teaches manufacturing and business related skills through the online learning platform, Udemy. He can be reached via LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/ray-harkins or by email at rharkins@ohiostar.com.

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