How can executive support professionals assess and improve their emotional intelligence and empathy levels?

2 How to assess your EI and empathy levels

Before you can enhance your emotional intelligence and empathy, it is important to gain insight into your current levels. You can assess this through taking online tests or quizzes that measure different aspects of EI and empathy, asking for feedback from executives, colleagues, friends, or family, and reflecting on your own strengths and areas for improvement, as well as your triggers, reactions, and coping strategies.

4 How to apply your EI and empathy skills

The ultimate goal of improving your emotional intelligence (EI) and empathy is to apply them in your daily work as an executive support professional. You can do this by anticipating your executives' needs, preferences, and moods and adjusting your support accordingly. Additionally, you should communicate clearly, respectfully, and empathetically with your executives and other stakeholders, using the right tone, language, and medium. It's also important to manage your own emotions, stress, and workload, seeking help or support when necessary. Additionally, you should be able to resolve conflicts, handle complaints, and deal with challenges in a constructive and positive way. Finally, don't forget to celebrate your achievements, learn from your mistakes, and seek feedback for continuous improvement.

5 How to measure your progress and impact

Improving your EI and empathy is an ongoing process that requires commitment and practice. To measure your progress and impact, you can set SMART goals for yourself and track your performance and results. Additionally, you should seek regular feedback from your executives, colleagues, and others on how you are doing and what you can do better. Reflection on your experiences, challenges, and successes is also important in order to identify what you learned and what you can improve. Lastly, it's important to celebrate your milestones, achievements, and improvements and reward yourself for your efforts.