In recent years, a new factor has been grabbing the attention of hiring managers. When candidates have emotional intelligence, it shows. It might also be what sets candidates apart in a competitive job market.
As a candidate with greater emotional intelligence, you’ll be better prepared to search for a job that’s a realistic fit for your career goals. A higher emotional intelligence will also help you roll with the ups and downs of a job search and any transition on the horizon.
How Can Emotional Intelligence Apply When Job Searching?
What Exactly is Emotional Intelligence?
Emotional intelligence includes a wide range of qualities around recognizing and managing our own emotions and those of others. Some areas of this includes:
- Self-awareness
- Empathy
- Self-regulation
- Effective interpersonal skills
When a candidate can develop greater emotional intelligence, they have the ability to realize their goals and aspirations, connect with the prospective employer, and build relationships at their new job.
How to Build Self-Awareness
Self-awareness is an important aspect of emotional intelligence. Before you even begin your job search, take some time to self-reflect. You need to determine your strengths, weaknesses, values, and professional aspirations. This will add focus to your job search and help you choose opportunities that support your authentic self.
It’s also important as you’re building your self-awareness, to understand how your emotions influence your behaviors and interactions with others. This is important to understand because your emotions, behaviors, and interactions are seen and evaluated in a job interview as well.
Understanding who you are will allow you to present your genuine self during networking and interview opportunities.
The Importance of Managing Your Emotions During a Job Search
A job search is an emotionally taxing time. It can feel like a rollercoaster ride with highs and lows. By being able to manage your emotions, you can still be in control of the process, even if you can’t control the outcome of every application you submit. Emotional resilience and a positive mindset will help you remain adaptive during the ups and downs. Not only is this helpful for your job search but it will become a noticeable strength that employers value.
How to Demonstrate Empathy
Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. You can demonstrate empathy by actively listening, showing interest, and understanding the needs and perspectives of others. By showing genuine empathy, you can foster rapport and create meaningful connections with people during networking and also in your interviews. Upon being hired at a new job, these skills in empathy will also affect your ability to effectively work with a team and collaborate.
Strong Interpersonal Skills are Game-Changing
When it comes to success in the job search process and throughout your career, effective interpersonal skills are key. For example, being able to articulate your ideas, describe your experiences, and discuss your qualifications clearly and confidently are vital during the interview process. You’ll also pay attention to body language and non-verbal cues to communicate effectively. Strong interpersonal skills will help you build relationships with industry professionals, mentors, and fellow job seekers. Not only can this enrich your life and career but it expands your network and provides more opportunities throughout your job search.
Find a Job that Fits Your Skills & Supports Your Goals
Contact Axiom Staffing Group to help you find a job that is compatible with your skill set and your career aspirations.
