In this episode, we talk with Karine Leblanc, vice president of Sales at iAIRE, LLC, and a renowned speaker, trainer, coach, and author, about the critical role of emotional intelligence (EQ) in engineering and why it matters. Karine provides practical strategies and tips for engineers to help enhance their EQ.
***The video version of this episode can be viewed here.***
Engineering Quotes:
Here Are Some of the Questions I Ask Karine:
- What is the title of your book, and could you share your experience as an author?
- Can you explain the concept of emotional intelligence (EQ) and why it has become important in the engineering field?
- Why is emotional intelligence important as a critical skill for engineers, especially considering their traditional focus on technical abilities?
- How has developing emotional intelligence impacted your professional life and influenced your approach to engineering and leadership?
- What strategies do you suggest for engineers who want to improve their emotional intelligence?
- How can engineering teams promote a positive emotional culture in their workplaces?
- How can leaders effectively assess the emotional well-being of their team, including using specific tools or methods to gain deeper insights?
- What advice would you offer engineers seeking to advance their careers and personal growth?
Here Are Some Key Points Discussed in This Episode About How to Boost Emotional Intelligence for Engineers in the Workplace:
- In “How to be Human in a Technical World,” Karine shares her journey as a young engineer in a male-dominated industry, where her ideas were often overlooked until echoed by male colleagues. Witnessing this pattern among peers, she transformed her approach, emphasizing emotional intelligence and resilience. The book aims to inspire others in similar situations, highlighting the value of human connection in technical fields.
- Emotional intelligence (EQ or EI) is about how you handle emotions in yourself and with others. It’s more than being nice — it’s recognizing emotions and managing them effectively. Even if you teach or write about it, you’ll still have tough days because we’re all human. The key is understanding and navigating your emotions for better relationships.
- Engineers play a vital role in society, but success goes beyond technical skills. Collaboration and communication with diverse teams are essential for effective engineering. Balancing technical expertise with strong interpersonal skills is crucial to prevent mistakes and ensure project success.
- Mentorship plays a crucial role in transforming the understanding of emotional intelligence. Feedback from mentors prompts education and application of new skills. Sharing this journey with the team inspires positive change, emphasizing self-awareness and growth in the industry.
- Self-awareness is crucial for managing emotions effectively. By understanding values, personality traits, and limiting beliefs, individuals can cultivate emotional intelligence. Being open to feedback and recognizing triggers for negative reactions are key strategies. Monitoring physical sensations like tense shoulders or a racing heartbeat helps regain control through actions like deep breathing or taking a walk. These practices empower individuals to navigate challenges calmly and build stronger relationships based on self-awareness and emotional regulation.
- Understanding how leadership impacts emotions is crucial for creating a positive work environment. Supportive bosses boost engagement, while negativity leads to disengagement. Tools like the Genos emotional intelligence assessment provide insights and empower leaders to improve workplace culture and promote self-awareness.
- Social awareness is essential for teamwork and relationships. Understanding others’ feelings and needs is key to effective collaboration and communication, especially in customer-facing roles. Recognizing colleagues, maintaining open communication like an open-door policy, and offering regular recognition boost engagement and inspire dedication from team members.
- For engineers aiming to grow, stepping out of their comfort zones is essential. Comparing it to stretching a rubber band, you need to stretch yourself to grow, but not too much. Reading is good, but applying what is learned is key. Taking at least one actionable idea from each book or podcast and using it helps embrace challenges for continuous growth and a fulfilling life.
More Details in This Episode…
About the Guest: Karine Leblanc
Meet Karine Leblanc, the dynamo who wears many hats — engineer, bestselling author, and international professional speaker.
As the VP of Sales at iAIRE, she’s not just crunching numbers — she’s crafting winning sales teams with her unique blend of engineering prowess, coaching finesse, and relationship-building wizardry.
Armed with a mechanical engineering degree from Montreal’s Ecole de Technologie Superieure and a slew of certifications, she’s a powerhouse. Karine is a John Maxwell coach, trainer, speaker, a DISC-certified behavioral analysis consultant, a Genos emotional intelligence certified practitioner, and an eSpeakers certified virtual presenter. Oh, and did we mention she’s a Heroic Public Speaking graduate alumni?
But wait, there’s more! Karine’s not your typical engineer™. She’s shattered ceilings by serving on ASHRAE’s board of directors, and her accolades include the ASHRAE Distinguished Service Award and John F James International Award. Plus, she’s the past president of the National Speaker Association Los Angeles Chapter, and her contributions to her alumni earned her the title of Leadership Ambassador. To top it off, she’s also an Amazon-published author!
Get ready to be inspired by this engineering maverick who’s anything but conventional. Karine Leblanc is here to transform your perspective and make learning a blast!
About the Host: Tiffani Teachey
Tiffani Teachey is a Sr. Mechanical Engineer, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) advocate, TEDx international speaker, and international best-selling author of the children’s book “What Can I Be? STEM Careers from A to Z,” the STEM Crew Kids Adventures series, and three empowerment books. She is the host of the Read It Right Radio Show on WDRBmedia. Tiffani is the owner of Thrive Edge Publishing and owner/publishing consultant of Inspired Authors Publishing. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering as well as a Master of Science degree in Engineering Management, both from The University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She is currently a Leadership Studies Ph.D. student at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.
As an engineer with more than 19 years of experience, Tiffani has a passion for inspiring the next generation to engage in STEM careers. She was born and raised in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and enjoys traveling and being a youth mentor. For more about Tiffani, visit her website at www.TiffaniTeachey.com. Check out the free STEM gift – 10 STEM Scholarships & Organizations e-book at www.stemistheway.com.
Books Mentioned in This Episode:
How to Be Human in a Technical World
Sources/References:
iAIRE, LLC
Genos
Karine Leblanc Website
Connect with Karine Leblanc on LinkedIn
We would love to hear any questions you might have or stories you can share on how you boost emotional intelligence in your engineers.
Please leave your comments, feedback, or questions in the section below.
