How Do You Feel?

Exactly how do emotional-intelligence tests work? And what kinds of questions are you likely to encounter on such tests? Reuven Bar-On's EQi lists a series of statements and asks respondents to rate how true each is. The test uses a one-to-five scale that ranks the degree to which each statement is true in one's life. Here are a few examples from the EQi.

• It's hard for me to share my deep feelings with others.
• I can handle stress without getting too nervous.
• Before beginning something new, I usually feel that I'll fail.
• When I'm angry with others, I can tell them about it.
• It doesn't bother me to take advantage of people, especially if they deserve it.
• I'm sensitive to the feelings of others.
• I would stop and help a crying child find his or her parents, even if I had to be somewhere else at the same time.
• It's hard for me to face unpleasant things.
• I generally expect things will turn out all right, despite setbacks from time to time.
• Looking at both my good points and bad points, I feel good about myself.

The Goleman-Boyatzis-Hay ECI is also based on a series of statements--but since it's a 360-degree instrument, individuals other than the test's subject are asked to answer the same questions about that subject. In this case, the ratings run from one to seven, with one being "slightly" and seven, "very." Here are some examples from the ECI.

• Respects, treats with courtesy, and relates well to people of diverse backgrounds.
• Take personal responsibility for resolving customer or client problems undefensively.
• Expresses own feelings.
• Pays attention and listens.
• Expresses positive expectations about others' potential.
• Calms others in stressful situations.
• Assumes significant personal or professional risks to accomplish important goals.
• Understands political forces at work in the organization.
• Behaves consistently with own stated values and beliefs.