I was not disappointed. I found it easy to read and quick to get into. The book gives a great overview of emotional intelligence - I now have a better understanding of what it really is. A few different definitions are given, but the focus is on Bar-On's theory.
While the book's research data, presented at the beginning and end, is based on Bar-On's test, it is not the focus of the book. The bulk of the book deals with each of the 15 areas of emotional intelligence - how you can gauge yourself, and how you can improve.
The examples are very good. After I finished the book, my 12-year-old son picked it up. He started to flip through it and ended up reading it - and he doesn't get through too many books.
I've recommended it to a few people at work and they weren't dissapointed.
Although I have some backgrounds on this subject, I still find this book encouraging, and it's good to refer back to once in a while.
I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to better their EQ-i or just curious.
The book was very easy to get into. The writing is engaging. It starts with a brief history and definition of emotional intelligence (something Goleman avoids in his first book on the subject). It focuses on Reuven BarOn's definition but also includes Peter Salovey and John Mayer's definition - the originators of the concept.
The book, to my pleasant surprise, does not focus on the test (Emotional Quotient Inventory -EQ-i), but on how to gauge yourself (using exercises provided in the book) and work on improving yourself in the 15 specific areas of emotional intelligence. For the most part the exercises are taken from well-validated methods of cognitive-behavior therapy. As a psychologist I have no problem recommending this book to clients. In fact, there is more data behind this approach than what is proposed in many of the "best-selling" books out there. (For the academically oriented professional, please read the EQ-i test manual.)
Most interesting to me were some of the studies in the last chapter. It is very unusual for self-help books, and books on emotional intelligence to include original research on the importance of the concept. This makes the book great for those people you know who doubt the importance of E.I. To see how E.I. has made a difference to the U.S. Air Force, and companies like American Express and the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce is impressive.
I've actually reviewed the research on the EQ-i, the test that much of the research is based on. The normative group is bigger and better than many tests in the marketplace: almost 42,000 people in 36 countries. There are also some good scientific publications on it. While there is no "perfect" test of E.I., I haven't found anything that even comes close to this one. In fact, I've come across many tests being used by companies that don't even come close to having the research that this one has. But the book is not about the test. You can't even get the test unless you are a psychologist or qualified management consultant or vocational counsellor.
Was the book an advertisement? Not really. The examples, which are very realistic, cover work and home situations.
What does it take to be a firefighter? Fighter pilot? Top of the heap in the sales department? A brilliant customer service advisor? Esteemed and respected corporate leader?
What does it take to get ahead? To separate yourself from the competition" Lead a less stressful existence? To be fulfilled in personal life and professional pursuits?
What is the most important dynamic of your makeup? Is it your A0 intelligence quotient? Or B0 emotional quotient?
If you picked "A", you are partly correct. Your intelligence quotient can be a predictor of things such as academic achievement. But it is fixed and unchangeable. The real key to personal and professional growth, and happiness, is your emotional quotient, which you can nurture and develop.
The EQ Edge, by Steven J. Stein and Howard E. Book, shows you how the dynamic of emotional intelligence works. By understanding EQ, you can build more meaningful relationships, boost your confidence and optimism, and respond to challenges with enthusiasm--all of which are essential ingredients of success.
The book features case studies and fascinating--and surprising--insights into EQ and the workplace. As an HR or line manager, this book will help you determine which personnel are the right fit for job opportunities and who among your staff will be the most promising leaders and drivers of your business. And because CEOs to front-line workers also have other roles--parent, spouse, caregiver to aging parents, neighbor, friend?The EQ Edge also describes how everyone can be more successful in these relationships.
"Finally, a practical and useable guide to what emotional intelligence is all about. This book peels the onions on what EQ really is and teaches the reader to assess their own EQ and how to increase it. This is the holy grail for career success." ?Michael Feiner, Professor, Columbia Graduate School of Business and author of The Feiner Points of leadership