Emotional Intelligence & Rep Management for Writers

 

There’s no doubt about it. Although most of us probably couldn’t provide a “textbook” definition of the term “Emotional Intelligence,” we’re typically keenly aware when somebody lacks it.

Think “shock jock“ Howard Stern. Or Roseanne Barr.

Or the successful business executive who publicly berates his restaurant waiter for his wrong order, not recognizing that what he could potentially be "served" once his plate is returned from the back kitchen might be even less appetizing.
Or the writer whose published blog rants come across as immature, irrational and irrelevant to his readership.

Whether we realize it or not, Emotional Intelligence impacts many areas of our work as writers and ultimately our bottom line.
With clients
With editors
With readers
With buyers and customersResearch from Harvard Business School demonstrated that EQ counts for twice as much as IQ and Technical Skills in determining who will be successful!
WHAT IS EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE EXACTLY…?

The English Oxford Living Dictionary Defines it as : “The capacity to be aware of, control, and express one's emotions, and to handle interpersonal relationships judiciously and empathetically:
‘emotional intelligence is the key to both personal and professional success.”
The term was popularized in 1995 by author and science journalist, Daniel Goldman.
　
HERE’S HOW EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE IMPACTS US FROM A HEALTH AND QUALITY OF LIFE STANDPOINT.

EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE CAN:

• Decrease the stress associated with combative, difficult relationships
• Increase our empathy for others; thereby enhancing our personal and professional relationships and our joy potential
• Improve our communication and connection skills, to build stronger emotional bonds
• Allow us to view problems and potential solutions with a wider life’s lens

THE ROLE OF SOCIAL MEDIA

In former times, those who perhaps lacked Emotional Intelligence were not as easy to spot or categorize; in that their bad manners, offensive language, bullying or racial references were often restricted to kitchen conversations or behind-the-doors settings.

But, with the advent of the Internet and social media, the voices of the emotionally “clueless” have been amplified and human relations potentially threatened. With the click of a button, people can simply exercise their 1^st amendment right to offend, incite, slander and misinform exponentially. Sometimes even anonymously.

 

REPUTATION MANAGEMENT

BE “PART OF THE SOLUTION, NOT THE PROBLEM.”

As writers, we have the opportunity and good fortune to use our voices, skills and platforms to:

• Educate
• Enlighten
• Entertain
• Illuminate important social issues
• Build global bonds
• Teach
• Spread positive messages
• Share our faith
• Influence the masses
• Heal wounds
• Offer hope

ACCORDINGLY, HERE ARE 4 TIPS TO INCREASE YOUR SAVVY, IMPRESS CLIENTS AND SHOW EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE IN PUBLIC FORUMS:

1. Take the high road; there’s less traffic.

 

In the words of former 1^st lady, Michelle Obama, during the president’s campaign for election: “When they go low, we go high.” Translated? Just because a blog commenter disagrees with you by way of comments; or an editor is rude to you; or a reader gives your book a bad review, doesn’t mean that you have to respond negatively or with anger. It’s only one person’s opinion--right or wrong.

 

2. Choose your battles wisely.

Doing so allows you to preserve your time, creativity, energy and sense of peace. When possible, take a “chill pill.”

3. Find the funny.

Did you know that laughter has healing properties? Patch Adams and the medical community have long recognized the benefits of laughter. It can release feel good endorphins; decrease blood pressure; reduce cortisol (a stress hormone); and strengthen the immune system as well. According to Helpguide.org: “With so much power to heal and renew, the ability to laugh easily and frequently is a tremendous resource for surmounting problems, enhancing your relationships, and supporting both physical and emotional health. Best of all, this priceless medicine is fun, free, and easy to use.”
Humor is a great alternative to anger.

4. Count to 10.

Before you react, reflect. Remember that your conversations and comments online can last indefinitely. Consider the impact it could have on future clients, future employers, or potentially your children and family.
　
　
In conclusion
Regardless to your writing genre, experience level or niche, using Emotional Intelligence can help convey a professional, polished image that builds smart business relationships, and ultimately your bottom line.


Thoughts? Questions here?

Want to know more about Emotional Intelligence and how to use it to enhance your creative career?

Order my new Ebook to get a good start on 2019!
 


 

https://payhip.com/BankableWriting


















Image credit (couple): Pixabay.com