When we talk about technology, startups, and innovation, we most often think about IQ, technical skills, and work experience. But reality shows that the future belongs to those who can not only think, but also feel.

Emotional intelligence (EQ) is the ability to recognize and understand your own emotions and those of others, manage them, and use this information to interact effectively.

• Negotiate instead of conflict — complex projects rarely go according to plan, and the ability to maintain a constructive dialogue solves more than brilliant code.
• Listening to the customer, not just the task — a deep understanding of the needs helps to create products that users love.
• To work effectively in a team — there are always different temperaments and styles of thinking in projects, and EQ helps to make them a strength, not a problem.

According to a TalentSmart study, 90% of top-performing employees have a high EQ, while among low—performing employees this figure is only 20%. Moreover, employees with advanced EQ earn an average of $29,000 more per year than their colleagues with low EQ.

1. Awareness Learn to notice how you feel at a particular moment, and what thoughts are behind it. Example: During times of stress, ask yourself the question, "How do I feel now and why?"
2. Empathy Try to take the other person's place. Not only listen to the words, but also observe the tone, facial expressions, and gestures.
3. Emotion Management This is not suppression, but the ability to choose an appropriate response.
4. Social skills Practice the ability to inspire, motivate, and engage. This is especially important for leaders and managers.

In the 2030s, when automation and AI will do more and more technical work, it is human qualities - empathy, creativity, and the ability to negotiate — that will become a key competitive advantage.