Relationship of Multiple Intelligences with

People’s Performance in Organizations

• The concept of multiple intelligences (MI) as introduced by Gardner in
the 1980s has become a more acceptable notion. According to
McFarlane (2011), Gardner introduced nine intelligences: linguistic,
logical-mathematical, musical-rhythmic, bodily-kinesthetic, spatial,
naturalist, interpersonal, intrapersonal, and existential. His argument
was that people’s performance and intellectual abilities are not
contained to a single aptitude but rather to a bouquet of abilities.
SOME OF THESE ABILITIES ARE INSTINCTIVE, WHILE THE MAJORITY
IS ACQUIRED. Following are a few recent concepts of acquired

capabilities.
 Multiple Intelligences Cont’d
1. Intelligence Quotient (IQ) is the measure of
intelligence in comparison to others in the population
(Colfax et al., 2010). Focusing on linguistic, logical-
mathematical, memory, special, and reasoning abilities.
 Multiple Intelligences Cont’d

2. Emotional Quotient (EQ), on the other hand, is “a measure of our

ability, potential to notice and then manage our internal and external
perceptions of our feelings and then control our reactions” (Kumar, 2012,
p. 1). In a simplified format, EQ stands on five pillars: Self-awareness, self-
regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills (Simmons, 2007). People
can enhance their emotional intelligence through practice, training, and
experience (Singh, 2011). Hence, it is a nurtured skill/ability
 Multiple Intelligences Cont’d

3. DQ: Desire Quotient is the willingness to do

whatever it takes – passion.

4. RQ: Reality Quotient is identifying correct objectives,

future projections and visions.

5. CQ: Communications Quotient is level of verbal,

written, body language – mutual understanding.
 Multiple Intelligences Cont’d

6. PQ: People Quotient is relating with people – reflecting on the

perceptions of others.

7. BQ: Behavioral Quotient is exhibited external focus and

dependability.
Multiple Intelligences Cont’d

8. AQ: Appearance Quotient is manifestation of the

correct level of confidence.

9. XQ: experience Quotient is learned through exposure

and reflection – accomplishments.

10. KQ: Knowledge Quotient is finding and learning the

new and different.
 Multiple Intelligences Cont’d

11. SQ: Situational Quotient is interpreting cues and developing

strategies for addressing.

12. MQ: Management Quotient is planning, organizing, leading-

managing, controlling, staffing, teaming, motivation, efficiency, TQM,
strategy and mentoring
Multiple Intelligences Cont’d

13. Wisdom Quotient (WQ)

• Historically, wisdom has been associated with age,

maturity, accomplishments, experiences, and/or social
status. Early biblical writings refer to King Solomon as
being wise, and the Book of Proverbs is full of wisdom
sayings. Nowadays, however, the reference to wisdom
is not very common, as if this attribute is no longer
faddy or a necessity in today’s marketplace.
Integration of IQ, EQ, and WQ
• The Intelligence Quotient (IQ) measures the person’s ability
to process as well as reason through information quickly
and logically. The Emotional Quotient (EQ) refers to the
person’s ability to socially accustom him/herself to the
constantly shifting social situation. While there are several
standardized and customized tests to measure IQ and EQ,
no documented research on testing wisdom intelligence
exists today. WQ is a new measure of intellect that requires
integration with the two recognized platforms – IQ and EQ.
Recommendations to help improve WQ
1. Manage knowledge: With such vast information available
on hand, managing knowledge – and determining what
constitutes knowledge – is challenging (Brooks, 2011). Use
your cognitive abilities to separate fact from fiction and to
separate emotionally charged materials. Yet, utilize social and
emotional skills to dig deeper into knowledge bases.
Recommendations to help improve WQ

2. Take your time: Wise decisions require time to articulate, formulate,

and assimilate. Seek “wise” counsel from close and objective
companions before engaging in a life-changing decision. By taking your
time, you should be seeking the short and long term common good of
all stakeholders (Service, 2012). Furthermore, timely decisions are wise
decisions; hence, wisdom is depicted in time/contextual decisions
Recommendations to help improve
WQ
3. Choose wisely: You may think that your high IQ –
which sometimes elevates you among your peers and
may instigate a feeling of superiority – can shape your
decisions. This is a myth. In fact, the “smarter” you are,
the more you should contemplate your decisions and
alternatives (Kumar, 2012). Keep in mind that other
people possess unique contributions too.
Recommendations to help improve WQ

4. Seek a balanced outcome: Wisdom intelligence involves

harmonization of outcomes. For example, history ascertains that a
decision to go to war is never a wise one; it is sometimes necessary, but
not wise if we evaluate the outcomes and consequences. An
understanding of self and others can achieve that balance (Rockstuhl et
al., 2011), or at least seek it. (Efficiency vs Effectiveness)
Recommendations to help improve WQ
5. Understand the context: The Contextual Intelligence
Quotient (CIQ) measure attributes much to wisdom in
taking action under uncertain or unknown conditions
(Service, 2012). Put an effort in recognizing and
appreciating the diversity of alternatives and reactions
before making a final judgment. Wisdom intelligence
requires a holistic and inclusive approach to problem
solving, not a reactive spontaneous one.
Recommendations to help improve WQ

6. Uphold relational balances: Since most decision-making processes

involve consequences on people and their lives, a highly effective WQ
individual should seek to keep relations with all concerned stakeholders
intact – or at least respectable (Service, 2012). Social interaction,
interpersonal skills, and relationships should not be sacrificed on account
of our own dignity (McFarlane, 2011). An understanding of individual
uniqueness is needed
Recommendations to help improve WQ

7. Know your values and judgments: Wisdom is best

displayed in uncertain and complex circumstances
(Service, 2012). A person who is unaware of – or has
intentionally ignored – his/her value-system and ethical
standards may not make wise judgments.
Cheers…!!!