Why the best software engineers and leaders have high EQ

If you ask most software engineers what makes someone good at their job, they will probably mention technical skills, problem-solving abilities, or analytical skills.

However, over the years, we have learned something important:

?? A lot of problems in tech are not technical, they are human.

Emotional Intelligence (EQ) is required, for instance, when dealing with tight deadlines, unplanned expectations, or communication gaps. The truth is these issues don't get solved with better code.

We know that the best engineers and managers tend to not only be strong on a technical level but also score high on understanding, listening, collaboration, and teamwork.

The good news? You are not born with EQ, instead, it is a skill that can be developed over time.

Why EQ matters in tech

When you have high EQ you don’t just communicate better you make better decisions, solve problems better, and create a more collaborative team environment.

Practical ways to strengthen your EQ as an engineer or manager

Listen first, solve second

Software engineers enjoy solving issues, but sometimes listening is the best course of action. Practice asking insightful questions and figuring out the underlying problem before coming up with a solution rather than jumping to conclusions.

Make a habit of pausing before answering in meetings. Consider what is being said, ask clarifying questions, and then share your thoughts. This small change allows you to gain a deeper understanding of others.

Know yourself, make better choices

Understanding your blind spots, strengths, and triggers enables you to work better with others. Consider how your emotions affect your relationships and work, and pay attention to feedback, even if it makes you uncomfortable.

Empathy is the glue that holds teams together

Tech is built by people, for people. Whether working with your coworkers or clients, understanding different points of view leads to better collaboration and innovation.

Make it safe to speak up in order to build a thriving team

Great teams aren’t afraid to acknowledge mistakes or question ideas. Developing a culture where individuals are valued and heard can have a profound impact on innovation and productivity.

The impact of high EQ?

Improved collaboration

High EQ means team members can communicate more effectively = smoother project delivery.

Better morale

Teams with high EQ build trust and respect = higher engagement and productivity.

Skilled leaders

EQ means managers can lead with empathy = teams perform at their best.

Regular one-on-one meetings and anonymous surveys can be useful tools for managers to evaluate employee satisfaction and address issues before they become more serious.

EQ is a superpower that can take you to the next level whether you’re writing code or leading a team. Start small by trying active listening in your next meeting or getting feedback on how you can better connect with your colleagues.

In the end, tech skills might help you land the job, but soft skills determine how far you go.

What are some ways you have developed emotional intelligence in your work? Let us know in the comments.

You might find this interesting: Senior engineer to manager? What to know before taking the leap