Measures of Emotional Intelligence

There are three generally accepted ways to measure EI:

 Self-reporting asks candidates to evaluate their own emotional

intelligence, similar to a personality test. This methodology is a good
way to understand a candidate’s perception of themselves, but this tactic
has some limitations. Self-report testing is a solid way to measure innate
traits like those found in personality. Self-reporting would make for a
solid measure of EI, but only in those who have high emotional
intelligence to begin with.
 Other-reporting flips the self-reporting script and tasks others with
rating the EI of another person. This method, sometimes called observer
rating, makes sense at first glance. Who could be better suited to rate
how well someone manages their emotions than the people around us?
Other-reporting does gather valuable information on how others
perceive someone, but that’s not the best way to measure emotional
intelligence. After all, to have truly reliable results from other-
reporting, all observers would need to have high EI themselves.
Otherwise, this methodology can introduce bias into the assessment
process.
 Finally, we have ability testing. This type of testing is the most reliable
form of assessment for technical skills. And since EI is skill-based, it’s
best measured with ability testing. At first, it may sound impossible to
effectively measure and evaluate how well a person understands
emotion. There’s a common misconception that anything tied to
emotions or feelings isn’t grounded in logic or science – but that line of
thinking couldn’t be further from the truth. If you wanted to evaluate a
candidate’s typing skills, you wouldn’t ask them to tell you, nor would
you ask their friends or coworkers how fast they type. You’d just have
them take a typing test. The same goes for emotional intelligence. A
truly strong EI ability test will measure the different key dimensions
that highlight the test takers ability to recognize, empathize, and utilize
emotion.
  How to Measure Emotional Intelligence?
When measuring emotional intelligence, criterion-report or negative testing is an
appropriate method to be followed. Intelligence is defined as ability and can be
measured only by the answers provided by people and by evaluating the answers
accuracy.

1. Revenue baron’s EQ-i:-This is a self- report test which is designed to evaluate

the competencies which take into account problem-solving, stress, happiness,
awareness, and tolerance. As per bar-on, emotional intelligence is considered as an
array of non-cognitive capabilities, skills competencies which influence the ability
of the person to go through, getting by with the environmental pressures and
demands.

2. Seligman attributional style questionnaire (SASQ):-This method was actually

used as a screening test for metropolitan life, Life Insurance Company. The main
intention of SASQ is that measures both optimism and pessimism.

3. Multifactor emotional intelligence scale (MEIS):-MEIS is an ability test

where tests are performed by test-takers which access their capability to
understand, identify, and make use of emotions.

4. Emotional competence inventory (ECI):-With self-assessment questionnaire

as a basis, the ECI lets people know their individual ratings about their abilities in
different emotional competencies.
  How to Assess Emotional Intelligence?
There are several assessment tools that are utilized for emotional intelligence and
are associated with Daniel Goleman. He was the one who has worked
for emotional and social competence inventory or ESCI. These methodologies
were developed in association with their long-term colleague Richard Boyatiz who
was a professor in the Reserve University along with researchers from Mc Clelland
Institute.

1. The emotional intelligence test evaluated:-This is used to decide the type of

test for EI assessment is used for most appropriate use. It is good to see the results
by Consortium for research on EI in organizations.

2. Technical manual ESCI:-The ESIC is used to hunt for the most recent findings
and also utilized to assess technical details such as validity and readability.

3. ESCI-U:-The ESCI method is mainly used in graduate school level and

colleges.

4. Emotional and social competence inventory (ESCI):-This method was

designed by Daniel Goleman, Hay group, and Richard Boyatzis. They are ones
which measure the emotional and social competencies and identifies outstanding
leaders. Training and certification for the same are available at Hay group at
Boston.
Strategies to develop and enhance Emotional Intelligence
1. Utilize an assertive style of communicating: Assertive communication goes a
long way toward earning respect without coming across as too aggressive or too
passive. Emotionally intelligent people know how to communicate their opinions
and needs in a direct way while still respecting others.

2. Respond instead of reacting to conflict: During instances of conflict,

emotional outbursts and feelings of anger are common. The emotionally intelligent
person knows how to stay calm during stressful situations. They don't make
impulsive decisions that can lead to even bigger problems. They understand that in
times of conflict the goal is a resolution, and they make a conscious choice to focus
on ensuring that their actions and words are in alignment with that.

3. Utilize active listening skills: In conversations, emotionally intelligent people

listen for clarity instead of just waiting for their turn to speak. They make sure they
understand what is being said before responding. They also pay attention to the
nonverbal details of a conversation. This prevents misunderstandings, allows the
listener to respond properly and shows respect for the person they are speaking to.

4. Be motivated: Emotionally intelligent people are self-motivated and their

attitude motivates others. They set goals and are resilient in the face of challenges.

5. Practice ways to maintain a positive attitude: Don't underestimate the power

of your attitude. A negative attitude easily infects others if a person allows it to.
Emotionally intelligent people have an awareness of the moods of those around
them and guard their attitude accordingly. They know what they need to do in
order to have a good day and an optimistic outlook. This could include having a
great breakfast or lunch, engaging in prayer or meditation during the day or
keeping positive quotes at their desk or computer.

6. Practice self-awareness: Emotionally intelligent people are self-aware and

intuitive. They are aware of their own emotions and how they can affect those
around them. They also pick up on others' emotions and body language and use
that information to enhance their communication skills.

7. Take critique well: An important part of increasing your emotional intelligence

is to be able to take critique. Instead of getting offended or defensive, high EQ
people take a few moments to understand where the critique is coming from, how
it is affecting others or their own performance and how they can constructively
resolve any issues.

8. Empathize with others: Emotionally intelligent people know how to

empathize. They understand that empathy is a trait that shows emotional strength,
not weakness. Empathy helps them to relate to others on a basic human level. It
opens the door for mutual respect and understanding between people with differing
opinions and situations.

9. Utilize leadership skills: Emotionally intelligent people have excellent

leadership skills. They have high standards for themselves and set an example for
others to follow. They take initiative and have great decision making and problem-
solving skills. This allows for a higher and more productive level of performance
in life and at work.

10. Be approachable and sociable: Emotionally intelligent people come off as

approachable. They smile and give off a positive presence. They utilize appropriate
social skills based on their relationship with whomever they are around. They have
great interpersonal skills and know how to communicate clearly, whether the
communication is verbal or nonverbal.