Soft Skills or Emotional Intelligence

This presentation explores the importance of soft skills, commonly referred to as emotional intelligence, in today's workplace. We will review key concepts of emotional intelligence, including Daniel Goleman's Emotional Intelligence Model, and examine research on how these skills are demonstrated in practice. The presentation will also highlight specific actions and behaviors individuals can use to strengthen their own emotional intelligence. As research continues to emphasize the role of emotions and interpersonal skills at work, emotional intelligence is increasingly recognized as a critical factor in fostering employee well-being, effective collaboration, and thriving workplace cultures.

Presenter Bio:

Tonia Dunson-Dillard is an Opportunity Program Advisor at SUNY Empire State University, a doctoral candidate in Educational Leadership and Change, and a passionate advocate for emotionally intelligent leadership and workplace well-being. Her work centers on academic advising and student success coaching through empowerment and by helping dismantle systems, enabling leaders to cultivate trust, empathy, psychological safety, and meaningful relationships.