This lesson explored how some of the major contributors to the field define the basic concepts of emotional and social intelligence and their related competencies. These concepts were framed in terms of their complementary nature, how the theoretical conceptualizations combine both terms, and the similarities that exist among various definitions. This exploration was fundamental to determining why emotional and social intelligence is important and subsequently what these competencies contribute to individual and workplace success. The importance of emotional and social intelligence was further seen in "The Story of Jim" and research presented by the Harvard alumni panel.

As central to emotional and social intelligence, how to perceive and understand emotions as well as whether these capabilities can be learned were explored. In addition, the most well-known and widely researched emotional intelligence theoretical frameworks and assessments were explored: the Emotional Quotient Inventory (EQ-i 2.0); the Mayer, Salovey, and Caruso Emotional Intelligence Test (the MSCEIT); and Goleman, Boyatis, and Hay Group’s Emotional and Social Competence Inventory (the ESCI).    

The lesson will end on the following pages with the chance for you to reflect and apply lesson concepts to your own personal experience of “great” leadership and how the traits, behaviors, or competencies identified relate to your leadership success.