Personal characteristics and competences - Ingredient of social intelligence

Abstract

The presented paper explores the instruments which form the concept of social intelligence. From the first reference of social intelligence in 1920, there have been defined several definitions of this concept. They are all based on the ability to effectively and actively relate to other people. It is a skill which is important in human relations, communication and is essential for building personal and professional relationships. This ability is nowadays seen as more and more important in our every day interaction with people. We make decisions within an organization, cooperate with colleagues and deal with our business partners and customers. In all of these situations we use our knowledge ( IQ), practical skills (AQ) and personal characteristics (SQ). These three elements form a model of holistic competence as described by professor Porvaznik. But which of these elements can we consider as the most important? Or do they have the same value? In our research we work with the concept of social maturity which is based on personal characteristics. We try to demonstrate how important this part of managers' competence is in their everyday decision making. The main aim of this paper is to identify the main characteristics contained within the framework of social maturity and their influence on managerial success. The article is supplemented by information from quantitative research conducted among respondents from the Czech and Slovak Republic. We examined the position and importance of the concept of holistic competence and one of its parts - social maturity among managers.