Emotional Intelligence Amidst Our Differences

Have you ever just not gotten along with a colleague, direct report, or boss?  No matter what you tried, you couldn’t get on the same page with That Person.  You wrote it off as a personality conflict or a difference in age, culture, or upbringing.  And you may have been right. Somewhat.  But what if I told you that these differences and the difficulties they sometimes cause could be overcome? 

I’ve helped hundreds of leaders just like you lean into their emotional intelligence.  It requires stepping into the realm of uncomfortableness, and most of the leaders will say that it was not easy. It’s also not always immediately successful.  Yet, every one of them who tried a new and unique approach to bridging the gap with That Person realized a more trusting and respectful relationship. 

In the next few weeks, I’ll be sharing a few topics and related questions that can help heal broken relationships, strengthen the weak ones, and engage the distant ones.

Our topic this week is: When you want someone’s response to information.

Sharing information has a minimum of two facets:  What are you sharing, and why are you doing it?  Is it for educational purposes?  Training?  Information only?  When you’re comfortable with both the information and your approach, consider pursuing a deeper conversation with some of these questions.

• What do you make of what I’ve shared?
• What do you think is best?
• How does this look to you?
• What would you add or change?
• How do you feel about it?
• What’s your impression of X?
• How does this fit into your plans?

Engaging another person by asking questions helps create a sense of trust, respect, and importance.  Seeking input from others speaks volumes about your integrity, especially when you’re engaging with someone others have labeled “hard to get along with.”

The next time you want engagement from That Person, remember that your preparation for conversation is not necessarily over just because you have a handle on the information to be shared.  Step back and make sure you understand the purpose of the conversation.  Once you’re in the conversation, ask questions. 

You may be surprised at how well the relationship grows!

Need an external source to help you step into your own EQ?  Let’s chat.

P.S.  Book a Complimentary Strategy Session so we can get you moving in the right direction; click on my Complimentary Strategy Session calendar link here and let’s book a time together so you can get started today!