Is the Future Female? How Emotional Intelligence and Gender Affect Workplace Leadership

Emotional intelligence (EQ) is a highly discussed, but not fully utilized element in human resource management, hiring practices, leadership, and professional success. Research has shown that having high EQ is a top indicator of workplace success and workplace flourishing. Research also indicates that women display higher levels of EQ than men, but do not prosper or excel as highly as men in the workplace. This paper reviews the original, representative, and popular research on EQ, its use in the workplace, and its implications across gender, as well as a discussion on the barriers women face in career success and leadership. I present empirical studies, popular literature, and anecdotes regarding these topics and provide my own understanding of the topic and outlook towards the future.