MGNT903 Managing Yourself and Others Assessment 1: Reflective Essay on Emotional Intelligence

Assessment Details

Assessment: 1 – Reflective Essay

Topic: Reflective Essay based on Emotional Intelligence Exercise

Word Length: 1500 words (excluding references)

Weighting: 20%

Due Date: Week 4

Type: Individual assessment

Submission: Online via Moodle Turnitin folder

Task Description

Complete the free EQ quiz available at http://www.ihhp.com/free-eq-quiz/. Reflect on your results by selecting one area rated as Optimal or Proficient (a strength) and one area rated as Vulnerable or Cautionary (an area for development).

For each selected area, draw on a work-related experience (paid or unpaid) that connects to that result. Apply the reflective strategy covered in lectures and supported by Moodle materials to structure your reflections.

Support your analysis with references to recent, relevant academic literature. Use a minimum of 5 references, including at least 3 from academic journals. Explain the inclusion of any non-journal sources and ensure their reliability.

Write in the first person, as this is a personal reflection. Use ‘I’ where appropriate to discuss your experiences and insights.

Format and Style Requirements

The essay must be:

• Typed and double-spaced (to allow feedback via Turnitin Grademark)
• Presented in standard essay format (no abstract required)
• 10-12 point font with 2.5 cm margins
• Correct Harvard referencing in-text and in the reference list

Adhere strictly to the 1500-word limit. Ensure grammar, punctuation, spelling, and overall writing mechanics are accurate. Structure the essay logically with a clear flow of argument.

Marking Criteria

• Critical Analysis (60 marks): Show understanding of key reflection concepts; provide critical, independent reflection on one strong and one weaker area; examine situations with learnings; engage theory and literature directly; link conclusion to developed concepts.
• Research Depth (30 marks): Evidence planning and selection of appropriate sources; use recent references (primarily post-2005, relevant to topic); prioritise quality academic journals (indicate reliability for websites); correct Harvard format; include references in Turnitin submission.
• Presentation (10 marks): Appropriate reflective writing style with personal pronouns; well-structured, logical, coherent argument; correct essay format; error-free mechanics; word limit adherence.

My EQ quiz results highlighted proficiency in self-awareness while indicating caution in relationship management. In a team project at my previous retail job, strong self-awareness helped me recognise rising frustration during tight deadlines and adjust my approach to stay focused. This strength allowed clearer communication of needs to colleagues. Relationship management proved challenging when resolving a conflict with a coworker over task allocation, where I initially reacted defensively instead of empathising with their workload concerns. Reflection revealed that pausing to consider their perspective would have de-escalated tension more effectively. Developing this area involves active listening practices and seeking feedback regularly in future interactions. Academic literature supports that targeted reflection enhances EI competencies over time. Improved relationship management contributes to better team dynamics and personal growth in professional settings (Schutte et al., 2021, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.paid.2020.110459). Consistent application of these insights strengthens leadership potential in dynamic workplaces.

References

1. Schutte, N.S., Loi, N.M. and de la Harpe, B., 2021. The relation of trait emotional intelligence with positive and negative outcomes of career decision-making. Personality and Individual Differences, 169, p.110459. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.paid.2020.110459
2. Issah, M., 2018. Change leadership: The role of emotional intelligence. SAGE Open, 8(3). https://doi.org/10.1177/2158244018800910
3. Miao, C., Humphrey, R.H. and Qian, S., 2018. The relationship between emotional intelligence and trait mindfulness: A meta-analytic investigation. Personality and Individual Differences, 135, pp.101-107. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.paid.2018.06.037
4. Aktepe, V. and Yener, E., 2023. The mediating role of emotional intelligence in the relationship between perceived organisational support and job satisfaction. International Journal of Business Excellence, 29(2), pp.145-162. https://doi.org/10.1504/IJBEX.2023.129456
5. Alzgool, M., Ahmed, U. and Pahi, M.H., 2020. The role of emotional intelligence as a moderator variable in the relationship between workplace spirituality and employee engagement. Academy of Strategic Management Journal, 19(1), pp.1-12. https://www.abacademies.org/articles/the-role-of-emotional-intelligence-as-a-moderator-variable-in-the-relationship-between-workplace-spirituality-and-employee-engagement-9156.html