Ways to Cultivate Emotional Intelligence in the Workplace

The shift toward hybrid work has significantly transformed the way teams communicate, collaborate, and maintain connection. While much of the conversation focuses on productivity and flexibility, another equally important factor has emerged: emotional intelligence in the workplace. As organizations settle into hybrid and remote structures, they must consider how these new dynamics influence interpersonal relationships, trust, and engagement. Therefore, emotional intelligence is becoming a core capability for modern teams.

Why Emotional Intelligence Matters in Today’s Hybrid Workplaces

Emotional intelligence in the workplace refers to the ability to perceive, manage, and navigate emotions—both your own and those of your colleagues. Traditionally, in-person environments made it easier to read body language, gauge reactions, and adjust tone accordingly. However, with hybrid setups, much of this subtle feedback is lost or harder to interpret.

According to a Gallup report on hybrid work, over half of remote-capable employees now prefer a hybrid model. As such preferences solidify, emotional intelligence is becoming a vital pillar of workplace success. In addition, organizations that neglect emotional intelligence may face higher turnover and disengagement.

Internal link: For more insights, see our article on building resilience through emotional wellness, which closely relates to emotional intelligence.

The New Trend: Prioritizing Emotional Intelligence in the Hybrid Era

Emotional Intelligence in Hybrid Workplaces: A Strategic Priority

The rise of hybrid work has revealed a growing need for emotional intelligence across digital communication platforms. Consequently, companies are now viewing emotional intelligence in the workplace as a competitive differentiator—not just a managerial asset.

In Deloitte’s 2024 Human Capital Trends report, one of the standout themes was the increasing relevance of “human sustainability.” This approach calls on organizations to support the holistic well-being of their people—which begins with emotionally intelligent leadership.

Challenges That Highlight the Need for Emotional Intelligence

Lack of non-verbal cues: Since much of today’s communication happens via video or chat, facial expressions and tone are often lost. As a result, misinterpretations become more likely unless teams develop skills to check in clearly and empathetically.
Delayed responses and emotional disconnect: Because asynchronous work introduces gaps in time and tone, emotional intelligence helps teams give others the benefit of the doubt. It also fosters understanding during slow or unclear conversations.
Risk of isolation and disengagement: Remote workers may struggle with loneliness or lack of recognition. Therefore, emotionally intelligent leaders are better equipped to notice these red flags and provide support proactively.

How to Improve Emotional Intelligence in the Workplace—Even Remotely

Building emotional intelligence requires consistent habits and cultural reinforcement. To begin with, here are actionable strategies your organization can apply:

1. Normalize Emotional Check-Ins Across Teams

First, kick off meetings with emotional wellness prompts or mood-sharing activities. For example:

Share one word that describes your current mood.
Briefly mention something that energized or stressed you this week.

These small rituals promote openness and reinforce psychological safety. Moreover, they encourage employees to be honest about their feelings.

2. Offer Training on Emotionally Intelligent Communication

In addition, host regular workshops that explore how to:

Deliver difficult feedback in a respectful way.
Clarify tone in written communication.
De-escalate digital misunderstandings.

Outbound link: You can explore Daniel Goleman’s framework for the five pillars of emotional intelligence, which provides a solid foundation for developing in-house training programs.

3. Build Empathy Through Asynchronous Tools

Although technology can sometimes create distance, it also offers new ways to express empathy. Tools like Loom (for video updates) or Donut (for virtual coffee pairings) help replicate the human touch. Furthermore, being mindful of time zones and response expectations allows teams to collaborate more thoughtfully.

4. Model Vulnerability from the Top

Leaders should lead by example. When executives admit to feeling overwhelmed or unsure, it gives permission for others to do the same. This vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness, in emotionally intelligent workplaces. Consequently, it fosters a culture of trust and openness.

Internal link: To deepen your understanding, see our guide on psychological safety and its role in team performance.

5. Encourage Feedback on Emotional Culture

Finally, create anonymous feedback opportunities that ask employees:

Do you feel emotionally supported by your team?
Are communication channels effective and respectful?
How comfortable are you sharing concerns?

This ongoing loop helps monitor and evolve your company’s emotional climate, which is critical in hybrid settings.

Putting Emotional Intelligence to Work: Real-World Inspiration

Case Study: GitLab’s Remote-First Emotional Culture

GitLab operates as a fully remote company with over 1,500 employees. Their culture handbook includes explicit guidance on emotional intelligence—from how to give feedback to understanding tone across written platforms. Additionally, they regularly revisit this documentation to ensure emotional health is a constant priority, not just a one-time training.

Other Notable Mentions

HubSpot incorporates empathy assessments into leadership development.
Salesforce provides emotional resilience training as part of onboarding.
LinkedIn Learning has seen increased demand for courses related to emotional intelligence and digital communication.

Additional Practical Strategies for Teams

Here are several ways any organization—regardless of size—can strengthen emotional intelligence in the workplace:

Set EI-focused KPIs for managers, such as team engagement, retention, and feedback scores.
Use internal newsletters to highlight emotionally intelligent behavior.
Create anonymous reporting tools for emotionally charged conflicts.
Invest in cross-functional team building that encourages empathy across departments.

Emotional Intelligence in the Workplace: Not Just for Leaders

While leadership sets the tone, emotional intelligence should be nurtured across all levels. Teams that regularly engage in honest reflection and thoughtful communication tend to be more productive and adaptable—traits that are especially important in hybrid setups.

Final Thoughts

As hybrid work continues to reshape modern business, emotional intelligence in the workplace is no longer a peripheral concern—it is a core driver of success. Whether you are managing a team or contributing as a team member, the ability to connect emotionally, read between the lines, and respond with empathy will determine how well your organization adapts to future challenges.

Therefore, for long-term resilience and employee satisfaction, investing in emotional intelligence is essential. intelligence is not just smart—it’s essential.

References

Gallup. (2022).The Future of Hybrid Work: 3 Key Questions Answered
→ https://www.gallup.com/workplace/397751/hybrid-workplace.aspx
- A detailed report analyzing current preferences and performance outcomes in hybrid work settings.
Deloitte Insights. (2024).2024 Global Human Capital Trends: Thriving Beyond Boundaries
→ https://www2.deloitte.com/xe/en/insights/focus/human-capital-trends/2024.html
- Highlights emotional sustainability and workforce well-being in the hybrid era.
Daniel Goleman. (n.d.).What is Emotional Intelligence?
→ https://www.danielgoleman.info/topics/emotional-intelligence/
- An overview of the five key elements of emotional intelligence from the leading authority on the subject.
Re:Work by Google. (n.d.).Guide: Understand Team Effectiveness – Psychological Safety
→ https://rework.withgoogle.com/print/guides/5721312655835136/
- Google’s internal research showing how psychological safety supports emotionally intelligent teams.
Verywell Mind. (2022).How to Build Resilience
→ https://www.verywellmind.com/how-to-build-resilience-2795059
- Offers practical steps for strengthening personal emotional resilience, which is foundational for EI.