• Observe specific interactions between you and others in differing situations. The first route toward change comes with awareness.

• Make a mental note of any situations in which you are uncomfortable or feel the situation did not go the way you would have liked. Think about what you could have done differently.

• Be aware of your "triggers". What behaviors in other people set you off? Are you misreading their cues? Are you being triggered because of your own biases, which are then interfering with your ability to communicate openly?

• Ask for feedback about your interactions. Ask frequently. Make it clear you want honest feedback. Accept the feedback with an open ear.

• Accept responsibility for your behavior. Don’t be afraid to apologize or acknowledge errors or insensitivity.

• Become more aware of your body language and nonverbal communication. Try to notice when your words are not congruent with your feelings or intentions.

• Practice "active listening". Before jumping in with a suggestion or criticism, bite your tongue and instead listen or ask for clarification. You want to be sure you are fully understanding what the other person is communicating.

• Don’t try to change everything at once. Choose one or two interpersonal behaviors you would like to work on and focus on those over a period of time. If you take on too much you will become overwhelmed and discouraged.

• Gain a good understanding of your interpersonal strengths and how you can maximize these. (For example, if you have a nice sense of humor, you can make a positive impact on others through your humor).

• Actively work on social skills training for yourself just as you would be working on developing other skills such as learning a new facilitation model or a new experiential learning tool. No fancy tool or theory will be as effective as good, solid communication skills in the workplace.

What is EQ?
Science and Principles
EQ Models
EQ Instruments/Business Application
Case Study

EI Toolbox

Tips for Enhancing EI:
Self-Awareness
Self-Regulation
Motivation
Empathy
Social Skills
Guidelines for EI Training
The Business Case
Suggested Books
Useful EI Websites