Emotional Intelligence — what is EQ and why it matters more than IQ?

EQ vs IQ — which matters more?

For decades, intelligence (IQ) was considered the main determinant of professional success. However, breakthrough research by Daniel Goleman in the 1990s and subsequent meta-analyses showed that emotional intelligence (EQ) is equally important or more so — particularly in management roles and professions requiring work with people.

A TalentSmart study of over one million people found that 90% of top performers have high EQ, and employees with high EQ earn on average $29,000 more per year than those with low EQ.

The Four Components of Emotional Intelligence

The most widely used model, developed by Peter Salovey and John Mayer, identifies four areas:

1. Perceiving Emotions The ability to accurately recognize emotions — your own and others' — based on facial expressions, tone of voice, and body language. This is the foundation of all emotional intelligence.

2. Using Emotions The skill of directing emotions so they support thinking and action. Mild anxiety can improve focus. Enthusiasm — creativity.

3. Understanding Emotions Knowledge of how emotions evolve, what triggers them, and how one leads to another. E.g., frustration → anger → regret.

4. Managing Emotions The ability to regulate your own emotions and influence others' — without suppression, but with intention. This is the most difficult and valuable component.

Take the test

Our Emotional Intelligence Test (20 IPIP-based questions) measures all four EQ components. Results include percentile scores and interpretation guides.