Research Brief
A recording for this session isn't published. Below is the BPI editorial brief — key takeaways, an in-depth summary, and FAQs drawn from the original session materials and the presenter's body of work.
Presenter
Justin Bariso
Description
Justin Bariso is the author of "EQ Applied: The Real-World Guide to Emotional Intelligence." Using fascinating research, breaking news analysis, and personal stories he’ll show what this quality looks like in the real world--and provide a glimpse as to how you can begin making emotions work for you, instead of against you.
Learning Points
In this presentation Bariso will explain:
- How the concept of emotional intelligence has evolved over the past 20 years
- How increased EQ can make better leaders and teammates
- The good, the bad, and the misunderstood about empathy
- How to protect yourself from getting hijacked by your own emotions
- Why the sandwich method of feedback is often ineffective (and what to do instead)
- Lessons from the FBI’s former lead kidnapping negotiator on using emotion to reach others
- The dark side of EQ
Key Takeaways
- 1.Emotional intelligence (EQ) has evolved significantly over the past 20 years.
- 2.Higher EQ can lead to better leaders and more effective team collaboration.
- 3.Empathy has positive, negative, and commonly misunderstood dimensions.
- 4.You can learn to protect yourself from being hijacked by your own emotions.
- 5.The sandwich method of feedback is often ineffective and has better alternatives.
- 6.Lessons from FBI negotiators demonstrate how to use emotion to connect with others.
- 7.Emotional intelligence possesses a 'dark side' and can be used for manipulation.
The Reality of Emotional Intelligence
In this webinar, Justin Bariso, author of "EQ Applied: The Real-World Guide to Emotional Intelligence," moves beyond theoretical concepts to show what EQ looks like in practice. Using fascinating research, current events, and personal stories, Bariso provides a clear view of how you can make emotions work for you, rather than against you.
The Evolution of a Concept
The understanding and application of emotional intelligence have changed dramatically over the last two decades. This session explores the journey of EQ from a niche psychological theory to a must-have leadership competency.
EQ for Leaders and Teams
Discover the tangible benefits of a high EQ in a professional setting. The presentation explains how increased emotional intelligence directly contributes to creating more effective leaders and more cohesive, productive teams.
The Nuances of Empathy
Empathy is often oversimplified. Bariso delves into:
- The Good: How empathy builds connection and trust.
- The Bad: The risks of emotional burnout and biased decision-making.
- The Misunderstood: Common myths and flawed assumptions about what it means to be empathetic.
Mastering Your Emotions
Learn practical strategies to prevent being "hijacked" by your own emotions. This segment offers actionable advice on how to maintain control and respond thoughtfully, especially in high-stress situations.
Rethinking Feedback
Why does the widely taught "sandwich method" of feedback so often fail to produce the desired results? Bariso deconstructs this popular technique, explains its shortcomings, and provides a framework for what to do instead to deliver clear, constructive, and impactful feedback.
Lessons from a Crisis Negotiator
The webinar shares powerful lessons from the FBI's former lead kidnapping negotiator, demonstrating how an advanced understanding of emotion can be used to connect with and influence others, even in the most challenging circumstances.
The Dark Side of EQ
Is emotional intelligence always a force for good? This presentation also explores the "dark side" of EQ, discussing how these skills can be manipulated for personal gain at the expense of others, and how to recognize and protect yourself from such behavior.
Emotional intelligence (EQ) is a critical skill for effective leadership and personal success, enabling individuals to understand and manage their own emotions and those of others. This session explores how to translate theoretical EQ concepts into practical, impactful actions within diverse professional settings, highlighting its enduring relevance for navigating workplace complexities.
What you'll learn
- Practical strategies for developing and applying emotional intelligence daily.
- How to enhance self-awareness and self-regulation.
- Techniques for improving empathy and social skills.
- Methods for fostering stronger interpersonal relationships in the workplace.
- Ways to navigate challenging situations with greater emotional control and insight.
Who this webinar is for
- Emerging and established leaders looking to refine their interpersonal skills.
- Managers seeking to improve team dynamics and communication.
- HR professionals aiming to cultivate a more emotionally intelligent organizational culture.
- Anyone interested in personal development and leadership effectiveness.
Why it matters now
In today's fast-paced and interconnected world, emotional intelligence is more crucial than ever. The ability to connect with others, manage stress, and inspire collaboration directly impacts innovation, employee retention, and overall organizational resilience. As workplaces evolve, leaders with high EQ are better equipped to foster inclusivity, adapt to change, and maintain high-performing teams, making emotional intelligence a cornerstone of modern leadership success.
How leaders can apply this
Leaders can immediately apply the insights from this program by focusing on several key areas. Start by practicing intentional self-reflection to better understand personal emotional triggers and responses before engaging with others. Implement active listening techniques during team meetings to demonstrate empathy and encourage open communication. Justin Bariso reminds us that small, consistent efforts in these areas can significantly improve team morale and productivity. Encourage feedback to build greater self-awareness across the team and model emotionally intelligent behaviors to cultivate a more supportive and effective work environment.
About this session
Key takeaways
Watching this webinar gives you grounded, practical perspective on workplace culture. Expect ideas you can use in leadership conversations, not abstract theory, drawn from Justin Bariso's direct experience.
Who this is for
CHROs, HR business partners, talent leaders, executive coaches, organizational development practitioners, and senior leaders who are responsible for workplace culture inside their organization.
Why it matters now
Workforce expectations, hybrid work patterns, and AI-driven change keep raising the bar on culture and leadership. Sessions like this help leaders make smarter, more evidence-informed decisions about workplace culture.
How to apply it
Use the ideas here to challenge a current assumption on your team, design a single concrete experiment in the next 30 days, and bring one finding back to your leadership group for discussion.