Emotional intelligence might not be something we think about much, but when we encounter someone with a lack of it, it can mess up your day.

“Emotional intelligence is a heightened sense of self awareness, where you become really mindful of the thoughts you’re choosing, the words you’re using, and the people you’re surrounding yourself with because all of these things contribute to your emotional state,” Jen Groover tells the CUNA News Podcast.

Creating a workplace environment that fosters emotional intelligence makes organizations more functional and productive, says Groover, an author, international speaker, and serial entrepreneur.

Groover also offers advice on how credit unions can create a work environment conducive to open interaction, understanding, and happiness.

“If you have more high-thriving people in the work place, they’re going to get along better, they’re going to be more collaborative, and they’re going to be healthier,” says Groover, who recently addressed the CUNA HR & Organizational Development Council Conference in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. “You’re going to have an environment that’s a lot more cohesive with a lot less drama.

“I always challenge employers to think about how much money is wasted by drama in the workplace,” she continues. “I believe it would be more than turnover, sick days, and divorce.”

People with emotional intelligence operate with greater intentions and less from their own egos, Groover says. “They help their colleagues and make better choices for everyone.”

You can listen and subscribe to the CUNA News Podcast in Apple’s iTunes Store, Google Play, and Stitcher Radio.

►Visit CUNA News for more conference coverage, and get live updates on Twitter via @CUNAJennifer, @cumagazine, @cunacouncils, and by using the #HRODcouncil hashtag. Learn more about the CUNA HR & Organizational Development Council, a member-led professional society for credit union executives, at cunacouncils.org.