quantmleap

Demian Entrekin has posted an article titled “What is the IQ of your Project Team“ where he proposes a set of variables that could be used to measure the team’s performance over time. The variables he suggests used are Skills, Ability to Learn, Experience, Speed, Communication, Unity, Curiosity and Openess.

Whereas I like his idea I would like to suggest we expand this concept and device the appropriate means to identify and manage the Project Team’s Emotional Intelligence (also referred to as ‘EQ’). In a nutshell, EQ refers to the capacity of individuals and teams to assess and then manage their emotions. In the context of a project team, the application of EQ will relate to the ability of the project team to identify, assess and then manage its interpersonal interactions. While there is no single definition for EQ, it is commonly accepted that it will include variables like Self Awareness, Social Awareness, Emotional Management, Change Management, and Self Motivation.

The rational behind the proposal to monitor a team’s EQ is based on the documented observation that teams with a higher EQ operate better than teams with an observed lower EQ. A research conducted by Australian researchers concluded that increase in the level of tested EQ resulted in improved decision making capabilities and ultimately an improved team effectiveness.

So, how would you increase your team’s EQ?

There are numerous techniques for improving team’s EQ and they include activities aimed at increasing Trust, Problem Solving, Listening, Appreciation, Solution Focused and others. See, for example, here and here. What ever method you choose to use don’t forget that the future of your project is largely in the hands of your team and as you fulfil your professional obligation to develop your team you really help them help you meet your project objectives.

I call this a win-win solution. Don’t you?