Advantages of emotional intelligence in the workplace
Emotional intelligence (EI) is a key part of how we work, communicate, and succeed.
It’s about knowing your own feelings, understanding how others feel, and using that awareness to build stronger relationships. In diverse workplaces like those in Dubai and across the Middle East, these skills are especially valuable. Teams often bring together people from many cultures, languages, and backgrounds. EI helps create understanding and trust.
In this article, part of our Emotional Intelligence Hub, we look at what EI means at work. We also discuss the importance of emotional intelligence and its benefits. You’ll also see real examples from the region and practical tips to help you use EI in your own career.
What is emotional intelligence at work?
To define emotional intelligence in business, we first need to explain what emotional intelligence is. Emotional intelligence means understanding and managing your own feelings. It also involves recognising and responding well to the feelings of others.
Read our article to learn more about the different emotional intelligence models. These models explain how we measure and use these skills.
Advantages of emotional intelligence in the workplace
So, what are some benefits of emotional intelligence at work?
EI lowers the chance of experiencing burnout
People with high emotional intelligence can recognise and name their feelings. This helps them recognise when they are overwhelmed and implement strategies that help them with stress management.
EI improves efficiency
Higher productivity leads to better efficiency. When team members know how others are feeling compared to the workload and goals, they can adjust their pace. This lowers the risk of burnout and helps the team work at its best.
Career development
High emotional intelligence is linked to climbing a career ladder. There is a clear connection between emotional intelligence and success in the workplace. In fact, studies show that those with EI earn on average up to $29,000 more annually than those with low EI.
Read our guide to learn how to measure your emotional intelligence and identify areas for improvement.
Better productivity
Low emotional intelligence in the workplace leads to struggling with connecting with others. Those with high EI bond better with others, learn to depend on each other, and work better as a team. They also feel better supported by their team. Helping one another becomes a priority.
Becoming a better team player
Those with higher EI know how to communicate with others. They speak when appropriate and listen when needed. Those who possess high EI are able to make others feel heard and understood.
Building trust
Employees with higher emotional intelligence can trust and rely on each other more. They manage their feelings in a professional way and work well together to succeed. Managers who understand the emotions, needs, and concerns of their team build stronger relationships and often get better results.
Read our article to discover more strategies for effective leaders wanting to improve their emotional intelligence skills.
Job satisfaction
Those with high EI are happier with their jobs. They know how to regulate their emotions and have higher self-esteem. Studies show that having a sense of belonging at work is important to 94% of workers. The ability to communicate and bond with others improves people’s sense of belonging.
Disadvantages of emotional intelligence in the workplace
Although having a high EI comes with numerous benefits, there are also several disadvantages that come with it. They include:
Overempathising
While empathy is important, leaders who have too much of it may struggle to make tough decisions that could harm team members.
Being perceived as weak
Being empathetic and understanding, rather than stern and harsh, can be seen as weak in certain workplaces. This is especially true in old-fashioned work environments.
Emotional drain
Always managing emotions and showing empathy can be tiring. Employees who forget to look after themselves may face emotional fatigue and burnout.
Time and energy investment
Building and using emotional intelligence takes time, effort, and ongoing practice. Some workers may find it hard to make this a priority.
Overall, the benefits of using emotional intelligence as a leader or employee usually outweigh the drawbacks. Still, workers need to be aware of the challenges and balance these skills with other leadership abilities.
Examples of emotional intelligence in the workplace
In Dubai and across the Middle East, workplaces bring together people from many cultures and backgrounds. Emotional intelligence helps create understanding and respect in these settings. These scenarios show how EI can guide actions, improve teamwork, and build strong relationships.
Cross-cultural teamwork
A manager in Dubai leads a team from several countries. They take time to learn about each person’s culture and communication style. This helps prevent misunderstandings.
High-pressure client meeting
In Abu Dhabi, a sales executive stays calm when a client raises last-minute concerns. They keep the discussion respectful and focus on solutions.
Ramadan working hours
A project leader adjusts deadlines and meeting times during Ramadan. This respects fasting schedules while keeping work on track.
Conflict resolution
In a Sharjah office, two team members disagree over a project. Their supervisor listens to both sides and helps them resolve their conflict.
Supporting new hires
In Riyadh, an HR manager notices a newcomer feeling isolated. They arrange team lunches to help them feel welcome.
Want to learn new strategies to develop your emotional intelligence? Read our guide for more tips.
Improve your EI skills with ISM Dubai
Strong emotional intelligence helps you lead with impact, connect with others, and tackle challenges with confidence. At ISM Dubai, our training turns these skills into real workplace results. You will build self-awareness, empathy, effective communication, and conflict management through hands-on learning. Every tool you gain can be used right away, helping you and your team work smarter and achieve more.
Ready to boost your emotional intelligence? Join an ISM Dubai Emotional Intelligence Training program and build the skills to lead, communicate, and succeed. Contact us today to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
Corporate emotional intelligence is when people at work can understand and manage their own feelings. They can also recognise and respond to the feelings of others.
Advantages include better teamwork, improved communication, conflict resolution, and managing stress. Disadvantages include that it can be time-consuming to develop, is emotionally draining, and may make tough decisions harder for overly empathetic leaders.
Not always. IQ measures problem-solving and reasoning, while emotional intelligence helps you manage emotions and relationships. Both are important, but in many jobs, high EI can be just as valuable as IQ for success.
Yes — emotional intelligence matters in business. It helps you manage emotions, understand others, build trust, and work well in teams. Strong EI improves communication, decisions, and workplace culture, leading to better results.
EI can be measured through self-assessment tools, feedback from colleagues, and formal tests such as the EQ-i 2.0. These methods assess skills like self-awareness, empathy, and emotional regulation.
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