Emotional Intelligence and Its Relevance for Coaching

Abstract

Emotional intelligence (EI) refers to a set of abilities that enables individuals to perceive emotions, understand emotions, and regulate emotions (Newman 2010; Mayer 1990). This chapter reviews two types of EI – ability EI and mixed EI – and their relevance for coaching. First, EI is established as a core coaching competency. Second, EI is highlighted as a focus area for content coaches while discussing the EI improvement paradox (Ciarrochi et al. 2002; Sheldon et al. 2014).