Developing leaders using insight from an ability assessment of emotional intelligence

Paul L. Nesbit, Elizabeth King

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference proceeding contributionpeer-review

Abstract

One popular assessment tool for emotional intelligence is the Mayer Salovey Caruso Emotional Intelligence Test (MSCEIT), which measures a person's ability in EI rather than using subjective self-assessment. While a test that measures ability overcomes the problem of subjective biases inherent in self-report measures it presents its own challenges. In particular, the use of an ability assessment may provide feedback that one's EI is not well developed and so be confronting to the recipient. Development requires a person to be receptive to the results of feedback in order to incorporate understanding into one’s self-awareness and subsequent development action plan. Thus, leaders in development programs using the MSCEIT may not engage with the feedback or may challenge the validity of the test rather than use the insight for development efforts. This paper discusses the use of the MSCEIT within group based leadership development programs and outlines how a focus on self-reflection is useful to help deal with the issue of negative emotional reactions to feedback. As well MSCEIT data collected over a period of five years data in a variety of group leadership programs is presented. These data are complemented by qualitative analysis of participants' reports reflecting on the results of the MSCEIT and its implications for their leadership behavior. Together these quantitative and qualitative data support the contention that MSCEIT reports often produce negative emotional reactions that need to be managed in Leadership Development programs. Practical and research implications are also briefly discussed.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings of the first Emotional Intelligence in the Workplace Conference
Subtitle of host publicationthe role of emotions in organisational settings
Place of PublicationUnited Kingdom
PublisherAshridge Business School
Pages1-12
Number of pages12
Publication statusPublished - 2013
EventEmotional Intelligence in the Workplace Conference (1st : 2013) - Berkhamstead, UK
Duration: 29 May 201331 May 2013

Conference

ConferenceEmotional Intelligence in the Workplace Conference (1st : 2013)
CityBerkhamstead, UK
Period29/05/1331/05/13

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