Emotional Intelligence Book Recommendations for CEOs, HR professionals and teams
Best book for….Learning the foundations of Emotional Intelligence
Emotional Intelligence (1995) by Daniel Goleman
Probably the most recognizable book on this list. Emotional Intelligence (1995) by Daniel Goleman is a cornerstone in the study of Emotional Intelligence. When conducting my doctoral research, this book was one of the first recommended by my advisor. The book introduces Goleman’s five components of EI: self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills. If you want to understand the theory of Emotional Intelligence and learn the difference between emotional quotient (E.Q.) and intellectual quotient (I.Q.), this is the book to start with.
Best book for….Finding that work-life balance and enhancing overall well-being
Emotional Agility (2016) by Susan E. David
“All healthy human beings have an inner stream of thoughts and feelings that assess threats” (David, 2016). This quote really stood out to me as I read this book, as I loved the unifying language of how as humans we all feel, we all have emotions. Emotional Agility by Susan David explores the idea of moving with your emotions and not letting them lead you. Some of the other emotional intelligence or social intelligences really share a lot of research and science. While David’s information is also rooted in research, science and real-world experience; as a consultant and doctor, it’s not presented exactly the same. The book is truly uplifting, and her examples are very relatable. If you are wanting to understand your emotions and better manage them, I highly recommend this book. Additionally, the book is a great read for any team member and would cultivate some excellent discussions and team-building exercises.
Best book for….Leaders seeking to increase their Emotional Quotient
Primal Leadership (2001) by Daniel Goleman, Richard Boyatzis and Anne McKee
Primal Leadership by Goleman, Boyatzis and Mckee (2001) is a great read for leaders because the book does an excellent job breaking down the science of emotions, mood, feelings and how they influence behavior. It’s not just self-help or leadership guidance, but a well-researched, well-thought out resource to help those in any leadership role truly understand what leadership is all about. Additionally, the book allows leaders to self-reflect on their own definition and models of leadership. In the name is the word “primal”, meaning fundamental or early stage in evolution. This book helps break down the onion of leadership development and focuses on how leaders are imperative for any team movement or growth. Also, the authors discuss how good leaders typically portray almost innate abilities usually equated with high emotional intelligence. I recommend this book. I feel high-level CEOs, executive management, and any community leader would come away with great examples, clear tools, and lots of moments of self-discovery.
Best book for….HR Managers wanting to implement EQ practices and improve team performance
Crucial Conversations (2013) by Joseph Genny & Kerry Patterson
Crucial Conversations: Tools for talking when stakes are high is actually a part of a larger series of books, tools and curriculum called Crucial Learning (Curicial Learning, 2022). Though this is not specifically emotional intelligence, the tools learned definitely support developing interpersonal skills, problem solving, empathy, assertiveness, and impulse control. A few years ago I personally sat through a course and read both books. As a new manager, the information transformed how I engaged my team. Initially I struggled to find balance between the responsibilities of my new role and how my relationship transitioned from colleague to boss. At the time I struggled having tough conversations when issues arose. This book gave me tangible strategies to implement tools like creating a safe space, making sure my motives were very clear when approaching someone and maintaining healthy relationships. Highly recommend this book and the training for HR directors, managers and teams.
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