What do you do if your emotional intelligence is lacking as a Case Manager?

1 Assess your EI level

The first step to improving your EI is to identify your strengths and weaknesses in this area. You can do this by taking a self-assessment test, such as the Emotional Quotient Inventory (EQ-i), or by asking for feedback from your supervisor, peers, or clients. Be honest and open to learning from your results and observations. Recognize where you excel and where you need to work on.

2 Learn from others

One of the best ways to boost your EI is to learn from others who demonstrate high levels of this skill. Observe how they interact with different people and situations, how they handle emotions, and how they solve problems. You can also seek a mentor or coach who can guide you and provide constructive feedback. Alternatively, you can join a professional network or community of practice where you can exchange ideas and experiences with other case managers.

3 Practice mindfulness

Mindfulness is the practice of being present and aware of your thoughts, feelings, and sensations in the moment, without judgment or distraction. It can help you improve your EI by enhancing your self-awareness, self-regulation, and empathy. You can practice mindfulness by doing meditation, breathing exercises, yoga, or other activities that calm your mind and body. You can also apply mindfulness to your daily work by paying attention to your emotions and how they affect your decisions and actions.

5 Seek feedback and improvement

Finally, to improve your EI, you need to seek feedback and improvement regularly. You can do this by setting SMART goals for yourself, by asking for feedback from your clients, colleagues, or supervisor, or by using tools such as journals, logs, or portfolios to reflect on your progress and challenges. You should also celebrate your achievements and reward yourself for your efforts. Remember that EI is not a fixed trait, but a dynamic and evolving skill that you can always enhance.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?