Apr. 16: Whiners Need Not Apply

What traits will help you get a job or get ahead in a job you already have?  Kaitlin Madden, writing on CareerBuilder.com, notes that human resources managers prize emotional intelligence even more than one’s IQ “because employees with high emotional intelligence are more likely to stay calm under pressure, solve conflict effectively and show empathy to their team members.”

Depending on circumstances, some workers believe it is next to impossible or even unrealistic to stay calm and not whine when circumstances are difficult. But there’s more than one way to address legitimate complaints.

Madden describes people with a high share of emotional intelligence as demonstrating control over their feelings, practicing self-reflection, listening actively and empathizing with colleagues.  Naturally, workers need relevant job skills. But if the choice is between two technically competent people, preference often goes to the one able to remain level-headed and agreeable.

These are traits worth cultivating both at work and in life.

One who is slow to anger is better than the mighty.  (Proverbs 16:32)

Help me to stay calm and trust in You, Jesus.