Describe 'emotional intelligence' and its relevance to business communication.

Emotional intelligence refers to the capacity to recognize, understand, and manage not only our own emotions but also those of others. This ability plays a vital role in business communication as it fosters better interpersonal relationships, enhances teamwork, and improves conflict resolution.

In the context of business, emotional intelligence enables individuals to navigate social complexities with sensitivity and awareness. Recognizing emotions can help in gauging team dynamics, and effectively responding to colleagues' feelings can lead to a more collaborative and productive work environment. Additionally, by managing one's own emotional responses, individuals can maintain professionalism and clarity in communication, even during challenging interactions.

The relevance of emotional intelligence in business extends to leadership as well. Leaders with high emotional intelligence can motivate and inspire their teams, leading to improved engagement and performance. In contrast, minimizing emotions or solely relying on analytical reasoning might overlook the human aspect of workplace interactions, which is critical for building relationships and fostering a positive organizational culture.