From Insight to Influence – How to Train Your EQ

EQ Is Not Inborn – You Can Train It

EQ stands for emotional intelligence – and at its core, it is about knowing yourself well, being able to manage both your own and others’ emotions and navigating relationships in a way that makes collaboration easier.

A common misconception is that EQ is a fixed trait tied to personality. That is not the case, explains Jeanette Svendsen, a long-standing career advisor at IDA.

“EQ consists of concrete sub-competencies such as self-awareness, empathy, and social skills. These are things you can work on and improve over time,” she says.

Just as you can learn a new programming language, a new method, or a new tool, you can also train your ability to read yourself and others – and use that actively in collaboration.

Small Steps – Big Impact

Developing your EQ does not require changing who you are. It is about becoming more aware of your strengths and challenges and adjusting small things in your everyday work life.

“Even small steps can make a big difference – for example, becoming aware of when emotions tend to take over, and then taking a pause when you feel frustrated, or asking an open question instead of becoming defensive,” Jeanette explains.

Over time, these kinds of adjustments can make a noticeable difference in collaboration with colleagues and in how your professional expertise is received.

E-Learning: Train Your EQ with IDA’s Digital Modules

To make EQ training simple and accessible, IDA has developed short e-learning modules of approximately 10 minutes each. Each module focuses on one central aspect of EQ – such as self-awareness, self-regulation, or empathy – and provides:

• a short introduction to the concept
• concrete examples from working life
• simple tools you can try out immediately

The modules are digital and can be completed whenever it suits you – on your computer or mobile device. Afterwards, you will receive small email reminders to help you retain and apply what you have learned.

Start Your EQ Journey with IDA

“The advantage is that you can take the modules at your own pace. Start small – but with tools that create immediate impact,” says Jeanette.