While popular opinion has long said that while IQ is fixed, emotional intelligence – the capacity to use emotions effectively – can be developed. A new study shows that a highly effective 2-day training can increase scores even in a highly technical workplace.

San Mateo, CA -- (ReleaseWire) -- 03/07/2007 --Despite their super-human capacity for making computers communicate, many “geeks” (AKA “IT Professionals”) are challenged by the traditional human-to-human interface. Yet as key players in any business unit, today’s IT experts have to get beyond their “left-brain” genius. While some think techies lack an understanding of emotions, new research by Six Seconds Consulting Group proves otherwise.

A team of computer engineers at Svimservice, a top Italian IT company, received a two-day training on emotional intelligence (or “EQ”). A month later their EQ scores had increased by a statistically significant average of 7%. As shown in the graph below, the average scores in the 34-person tech team increased in all domains with the highest increases shown in Consequential Thinking (making careful decisions) and Recognizing Patterns (part of self-awareness). A White Paper on the Svimservice study is online at http://6seconds.org/sei/wp-increase.php .

This finding adds credence to what innovative leaders have long realized: Emotional Intelligence can be developed. The study is a reminder that human capital strategy should include training in this important arena maximizing workforce efficacy.

The research was conducted using the “Six Seconds Emotional Intelligence Assessment” <http://www.6seconds.org/sei/> (SEI), which rigorously measures eight core competencies of emotional intelligence. SEI is the best-in-class tool for assessing and developing emotional intelligence and is published by Six Seconds.

Six Seconds is an international nonprofit organization helping businesses, schools, and communities solve critical problems by developing emotional intelligence. With offices in the US, Italy, Singapore, China, France, and Australia and over 10 years of proven experience, Six Seconds is the world leader in emotional intelligence consulting.