EI Future Global Insights
There are 3 emerging trends in EI for 2025 – relevant to every part of the world.
Take it from this power panel. Debbie Muno, MD Genos North America, Deiric McCann, MD Genos Europe and Vicky Karuga, MD Genos Pan Africa. They join Genos International CEO Dr Ben Palmer and co-host Marie El Daghl to discuss EI in 2025 and beyond, based not only on their expertise, but the collective feedback of over 100 EI experts from the Genos Global Conference 2024.
After years of remote and rapidly changing work environments, companies globally are dealing with high levels of stress, burnout, and weakened interpersonal skills. The need for emotional intelligence has never been more important, as it plays a key role in navigating these challenges and shaping a healthier, more connected workplace culture.
A notable insight from the conference was the urgent need to relearn interpersonal and leadership skills as companies transition back into the office full time. This shift has been particularly difficult for first time leaders, who now face the dual challenge of learning to lead while also developing their own emotional intelligence skills. As we look to 2025 and beyond, developing soft skills will once again take centre stage with an increased focus on training the younger workforce to build their EI skills. Not only is it crucial in their success but increases their ability to navigate times of uncertainty.
The panel also sheds light on the often overlooked middle 50% of employees, emphasising that small improvements in this group can lead to significant marginal gains – a reminder that sometimes, little changes in approach can create big impacts on performance and overall engagement.
A key point the panel touches on is the importance of measuring emotional intelligence during the recruitment process. Assessing candidates EI during the interviews and onboarding stage can ensure that new hires contribute positively to the organisation’s culture from day dot. Beyond recruitment, the panel explores employee engagement strategies that go deeper than surface level solutions. Emphasising that wellbeing and culture are critical to sustaining long term productivity and growth.
In this episode, learn about:
[00:14] the 2024 Global Conference in Bangkok including the highlights.
[02:15] global occupational stress levels and the need for interpersonal skills after significant periods of remote work.
[03:16] the importance of relearning interpersonal skills as people return to the workplace.
[04:07] a case study from the Kenya Co-operative Bank focusing on youth learning and emotional intelligence.
[06:29] the challenges faced by first-time leaders returning to the office after lockdowns.
[12:09] the importance of measuring emotional intelligence during recruitment and its effect on onboarding.
[17:25] the need to re-energize workplace culture as employees return to the office.
[19:13] how leadership teams should support employees’ transition back to the office emotionally.
[21:31] recognising and managing the stress of change as employees return to work.
[26:51] a case study that highlights the positive effects of emotional intelligence on hospitality workers.
[28:22] how businesses are shifting focus from profits to employee well-being.
[30:39] the learnings from the 2024 Global Conference that our panellists will implement in their lives and throughout their daily interactions post conference.
[36:17] the importance of careful hiring to avoid workplace tension and unproductivity.
Deiric McCann
Managing Director, Genos International Europe.
With over two decades of experience in upper-level management at multinational corporations and an additional decade working with international clients, Deiric has helped teams worldwide cultivate emotional intelligence, psychological safety, resilience, and engagement.
He is an esteemed keynote speaker and an author of multiple books. His books emphasise the crucial role of employee engagement in achieving business success and is highly skilled in helping clients and partners implement evidence-based EI solutions that generate a measurable return on investment.
Debbie Muno
Managing Director, Genos International North America
Debbie has a unique combination of skills: the ability to articulate the science of emotions along with the practical applications of emotional intelligence and her ability to use the power of storytelling to bring EI to life through real-world examples. A love of public speaking, decades of experience in psychometric assessments, and a talent for coupling clients’ needs with solutions make discussing EI with Debbie an insightful and customized experience. She articulates the impact of EI on those participating, as well as the ROI of EI for the organization.
Vicky Karuga
Managing Director, Genos International Pan Africa
Vicky Karuga is a creative, dynamic executive leader and entrepreneur with 18 years of experience as a Registered Architect, transforming spaces across East Africa. Later transitioning into talent management as Managing Director of Profiles International. Vicky’s love for people saw delve into the world of psychometrics, learning and development, digital education, and emotional intelligence for the past decade. Vicky leads the Genos Pan Africa Distributorship, expanding the brand across the continent. She chairs the COMESA Federation of Women in Business (Kenya Chapter) and enjoys music and is passionate about people and their potential, finding inspiration in their stories.