indicated there was no formulaic method for how EI-related experiences
appear.
- EI experiences were socially constructed. Participant EI experiences were
oftentimes contextualized in terms of relating to and connecting with people
in a social milieu.
- Culture influenced EI experiences. For example, organizational cultures were
perceived by some participants as enablers or barriers. Others cited that
understanding the culture was integral to shaping one’s EI.
- EI experiences were inherent for effective leadership. Some participants cited
EI maturity as a leadership litmus test, and that dealing in EI contexts is
imbedded in how a leader demonstrates the ability to influence and connect.
- Developing EI was dependent on experiences such as defining moments that
can occur in an accidental, unplanned nature. Rotational assignments, being
receptive to learning, and experiences that challenged the participant were
notably resonant threads in the interviews.
Personal Life Theme 6: EI Experiences are Integrated with Other Aspects of Workplace and
life. EI is not isolated from the workplace and everyday life realities. Rather,
EI experiences are integrated at the nexus between personal and professional
settings, and the pressures executives face in trying to attain work: life
balance.
