In his bestseller Emotional Intelligence Daniel Goleman defined this faculty as "a set of traits including self-control, zeal and persistence, and the ability to motivate oneself." Now he expands these emotional competencies to include inspiration, political savvy, and cooperation — all of which can come in very handy at work.

Goleman uses data gathered from more than 150 companies on what separates the good from the superior performer on the job. He found that emotional intelligence is much more important than IQ. The management of feelings and the art of dealing with all sorts of people are highly prized talents in any business and the new global economy. It's a great day when even entrepreneurs and CEOs are singing the praises of empathy and altruism!