IQ vs EQ - Which is More Important in Leadership?

Because of their complexity, there may be no one way to measure human intelligence or emotions. Nor can it be considered that they are too different from each other

The first IQ (intelligence quotient) test was first developed and used by French psychologist Alfred Binet in the early 1900s as part of experimental psychology. He developed this test to identify if students required some special attention in schools. There have been quite a few modifications among those. 

Then fast-forward 80 years, and the emotional quotient came to the fore through Howard Gardner and Daniel Goleman (who also discusses different leadership styles). But together they discussed the ability of humans to understand others and work cooperatively among them. It posits that there is more than one type of intelligence to test one’s competence. Some scholars on management and organisational behaviour debate that EQ is a better measure than IQ, while there are psychology experts who would think otherwise. 

Key Differences Between EQ and IQ

Aspect	Emotional Intelligence (EQ)	Intelligence Quotient (IQ)
Focus	Primarily concerned with emotions, interpersonal skills, and social awareness.	Primarily focused on cognitive abilities, analytical skills, and intellectual capacity.
Components	Self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills.	Verbal comprehension, working memory, perceptual reasoning, and processing speed.
Measurement	Assessed through tests like the Emotional Intelligence Appraisal or the Mayer-Salovey-Caruso Emotional Intelligence Test.	Assessed through standardised IQ tests such as the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) or Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scales.
Flexibility	Can be developed and improved over time through self-reflection, practice, and learning.	Generally considered stable over time and less susceptible to significant change through training.
Real-world application	Crucial in social interactions, leadership, teamwork, and conflict resolution.	Often associated with academic and professional success, problem-solving, and critical thinking.
Cultural bias	Less influenced by cultural or socio-economic factors, as it is related to interpersonal skills.	May be influenced by cultural bias in the design and content of IQ tests.
Predictive power	Strongly correlated with success in interpersonal relationships and leadership roles.	It correlates with academic success, certain job performance aspects, and problem-solving abilities.

But today, there are varying opinions for both. Popular Canadian psychologist, like Jordan Peterson, believes that “There is no such thing as EQ”. His school of thought aligns more with IQ as the only test of competence, as he mentions, “There's no "probably" about it. IQ tests are the most reliable and valid measures in the social sciences.” 

So, there is more to discuss here, don’t you think?

Understanding IQ

Intelligence Quotient (IQ) tests are standardised assessments designed to measure an individual's cognitive abilities and intellectual potential. They evaluate a person's capacity for logical reasoning, problem-solving, abstract thinking, and the ability to learn from experience.

Key Objectives of IQ Tests

Cognitive Abilities

IQ tests assess various cognitive domains, such as verbal comprehension, working memory, perceptual reasoning, and processing speed. The tests attempt to capture a comprehensive picture of an individual's intellectual capacity.

Educational Placement

IQ scores are often used in educational settings to determine appropriate academic placements for students. They can assist educators in identifying students who may benefit from special education programs or advanced placement.

Job Placement and Career Development:

In some instances, IQ tests are employed in the workforce to assess cognitive abilities relevant to certain job roles. They can aid employers in making informed decisions about job placements and career development.

IQ Classifications

There are several well-known IQ tests. 

Stanford-Binet Classification 5th Edition

IQ Range ("Deviation IQ")	IQ Classification
140+	Very gifted or highly advanced
130–140	Gifted or very advanced
120–129	Superior
110–119	High average
90–109	Average
80–89	Low average
70–79	Borderline impaired or delayed
55–69	Mildly impaired or delayed
40–54	Moderately impaired or delayed

Current Wechsler IQ classification

IQ Range	IQ Classification
130 and above	Very Superior
120–129	Superior
110–119	High Average
90–109	Average
80–89	Low Average
70–79	Borderline
69 and below	Extremely Low

Limitations of IQ Assessments

• The focus on IQ assessments is too narrow to define one’s combined set of skills. 
• Overlooks the potential for growth and development in various aspects of intelligence over time through learning, experience, and adaptation.
• The applicability of IQ tests across different cultures and linguistic backgrounds is a concern. For instance, linguistic bias can arise when questions heavily depend on a particular language's structure, vocabulary, or idioms. A person, whose first language is not English, may face difficulties in comprehending and responding to questions that require a deep understanding of English-specific language nuances.

Understanding EQ

Emotional Quotient is a numerical measurement of an individual's emotional intelligence. It is derived from standardised tests designed to assess emotional competencies. The EQ score quantifies a person's ability to navigate life's social and emotional aspects. A higher EQ is often associated with greater emotional awareness, effective interpersonal relationships, and overall emotional resilience.

Purpose of EQ Tests

Measuring Emotional Capacity

EQ tests provide insights into an individual’s emotional awareness and interpersonal skills. The purpose of these tests is to gauge one's capacity for emotional understanding and effective management.

They measure emotional awareness by evaluating an individual's ability to recognise and understand their own emotions and those of others. Additionally, these tests assess one's proficiency in managing and regulating emotions. 

In an organisation context, they broadly covers skills such as stress management, impulse control, and emotional resilience. The goal is to determine how well individuals navigate and respond to the emotional aspects of various situations.

Decision-Making Ability

Emotional intelligence influences decision-making by helping individuals consider and manage emotions in the decision process. It enables a more thoughtful and empathetic approach to choices, particularly in situations with interpersonal implications. 

Role of EQ in Social and Interpersonal Skills 

Emotional intelligence plays a crucial role in social and interpersonal skills. Individuals with high EQ can navigate social complexities, build rapport, and communicate effectively. EQ contributes to empathy, active listening, and the ability to navigate social nuances. 

Importance of EQ in Personal Relationships and Leadership

A high level of EQ enhances communication, understanding, and conflict resolution in personal relationships. It promotes empathy and creates a supportive environment for emotional expression. 

In leadership roles, EQ is invaluable for building strong team dynamics, motivating others, and fostering a positive organisational culture. Leaders with high EQ are often more adept at understanding and responding to the needs and emotions of their team members.

If you are looking to explore more on this relationship, check out courses such as Inspiring Leadership Through Emotional Intelligence on Coursera. 

EQ's Impact on Decision-Making and Overall Well-being

Emotional intelligence influences decision-making by helping individuals consider and manage emotions in the decision process. It enables a more thoughtful and empathetic approach to choices, particularly in situations with interpersonal implications. 

Further, individuals with high EQ often experience better overall well-being, as they can effectively cope with stress, maintain positive relationships, and adapt to challenges, contributing to a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Embracing the Full Spectrum of Intelligence

IQ and EQ are two essential pillars of human intelligence. Each contributes unique strengths to our ability to navigate life's complexities. 

Nurturing IQ and EQ empowers individuals to unlock their potential, achieve greater heights, and live more fulfilling lives. The journey of personal growth and development lies in continuously expanding cognitive and emotional horizons.

Do look into personal development courses too, which can help you respond to critical situations at work and life.