By Tiffany Smith

Emotional intelligence (EI) is incredibly complex and incredibly simple. When this became a buzzword of sorts a number of years ago, I immediately became intrigued. I consider myself both emotional and intelligent; I thought, this is a perfect adjective for my brand.

Emotional intelligence is defined as “the capacity to be aware of, control, and express one’s emotions, and to handle interpersonal relationships judiciously and empathetically.” It’s also the key to both personal and professional success. I found this incredibly intriguing. A deeper dive quickly revealed I had much to learn about emotional intelligence. It was eye-opening to learn and discover how practicing emotional intelligence can make monumental positive changes in all aspects of your life: family, friends, co-workers.

I was further encouraged to learn how many firms, corporations, and employers are valuing someone with a high EI, sometimes finding them more attractive than someone with a high IQ. It’s something I like to read about, study about, and talk about.

I hope you will join me Sept. 22 at 2 p.m. Eastern for IPMI’s free, online Frontline Fundamentals session on using emotional intelligence in the workplace. It’s a great opportunity to more about how it can add success to your daily walk. Click here to register.

Tiffany Smith is director of the Parking Authority of River City, Ky.