EQ vs. IQ: What’s the Difference?

Wondering what the difference is between “EQ” and “IQ?” You’re not alone!

EQ and IQ are terms that are often confused since they sound similar, but are in fact quite different. The “Intelligence quotient” or IQ is a measure of a person’s overall intelligence. The “emotional quotient” or EQ is a measure of an individual’s emotional intelligence.  And, there’s one more – “EI,” which stands for emotional intelligence, which is defined as a person’s ability to identify and manage their and other people’s emotions. 

This post will explore the differences between IQ and EI and explore the key components of your emotional quotient, or EQ. 

EQ vs. IQ: What’s the Difference?

Intelligence Quotient

According to Merriam-Webster, Intelligence quotient, or IQ, is the number used to express the relative intelligence of a person. This number is determined by either the ratio of a person’s mental age (as reported on a standardized test) to the chronological age multiplied by 100, or a person’s score as determined by a standardized intelligence test relative to the average performance of others in the same age.

Generally speaking, a person below 70 is considered to have an intellectual disability, while those scoring over 145 are considered genius, or near-genius. 

Emotional Quotient

Emotional intelligence (EI) is defined as a person’s ability to sense, understand, and apply the power of emotions to achieve levels of collaboration and productivity with others and can be measured by a standardized assessment resulting in a single measure called an Emotional Quotient (EQ).

Many successful leaders have developed emotional intelligence through training, which is why they’re able to work well with a wide variety of people and respond quickly to changing conditions and situations. In fact, research has shown that a person’s EQ might be a better predictor for success than their IQ.

Build your EQ with us! Register for our upcoming EQ Connections™ event by clicking here. 

The training will deliver 6 slide decks, that include 16 components of emotional intelligence based on the trusted EQ-i2.0 assessment.  The sub-scales will be described and include proven, evidence-based strategies to enhance emotional intelligence. 

Five Components of Emotional Intelligence

EI influences how we think about ourselves, as well as how we think about and act towards other people. The stronger a person is in each of these areas, the higher their EQ is likely to be. 

When it comes to the “self,” the hallmarks of high EQ are:

1. Self-awareness. The ability to recognize and understand your moods, emotions, and how they affect others around you.
2. Self-regulation. The ability to control or redirect negative moods and impulses and to “think before you react” in stressful situations. 
3. Motivation. The factors that drive you to pursue your goals, beyond the external drive for power, knowledge, utility, surroundings, or others.

Externally, EQ is a measure of how you handle interpersonal situations:

1. Social awareness. The ability to understand other people’s emotions and how your words and actions affect them.
2. Social regulation. The ability to manage relationships, build networks, and influence others in positive and constructive ways.

How to Gauge EQ?

EQ is best measured through the use of assessments. A person obtains a score based on their answers to questions that directly assess the components mentioned above; the higher the score, the higher their EQ.

Understanding a person’s EQ can help paint a clear picture of who someone is, and how they’re likely to behave in specific situations, such as when they face a challenge or personal setback. Those with higher motivation and optimism might view the setback as a learning opportunity rather than a negative event. 

The good news is that emotional intelligence is something that can be nurtured and developed. While you may have some areas where you struggle, developing your emotional intelligence can help you enhance your skills and your ability to succeed in both business and personal situations.

For research-backed exercises to build your EQ pick up your copy of our book “Emotional Intelligence: Your Foundation for Success.” 

You can also register for our upcoming EQ-i2.0 Refresher course and re-familiarize yourself with the skills and techniques needed to continue to build and develop your EQ.