One of the most pertinent issues regarding the interpretation of intelligence today is that of the difference between the conventional Intelligence Quotient (IQ) and the newer Emotional Intelligence Quotient (EQ).

By definition, your IQ (a concept which was developed in the early 1900's) is your ability to make logical connections, identify patterns or trends, comprehend concepts and ascertain answers to questions quickly.

EQ on the other hand (a relatively new aspect of psychology) is your relative ability to manage your emotions and the emotions of others in a group. 

However, the emotions that are referred to here are not stereotypical emotions such as happiness and sadness.  Emotions are a much more complex and subtle aspect of our interactions with others and understanding of ourselves.  Therefore, the greater someone's EQ, the greater their ability for successful communication with others or understanding of another point of view.

Seeing as this ability to communicate with and understand others is such a useful and prized skill, it is often as much a pre-requisite for employment in business as high grades or IQ.  This is because in any environment (either business or personal) that a person is involved in will inevitably require interpersonal relations, and businesses recognise that in order to be successful, communication must pass easily between all interested parties. 

In essence, they work on the principle that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts, a notion that is made possible by a person having a high EQ.

Another great thing about EQ is that it is very easy to develop or improve on.  This is something that I regularly try to do myself, by listening intently to others, understanding what the other person is trying to say, finding common ground between us, and responding in a constructive and helpful way.  This is not always possible, but simply by trying to do so, I believe that I am going some way to develop my own EQ and my ability to relate to others.