HRM CHRONICLES
Multi-Quotient Employees : The Latest Workplace Fad
By Samson Osero
I was joyfully looking forward to meeting Angela and Daudi for our first 2023 monthly catch-up meeting . As we sat down inside an old aeroplane structure turned restaurant at Kitengela , I remarked : “ The scorching afternoon heat and the current stubborn drought has dictated that we hold this meeting indoors .”
As we discussed current affairs , ranging from the imposition of new taxes to looming political handshakes , I asked , “ Are you aware of the new kid on the digital block called ChatGPT ?”
Chatbots
Daudi , a political science lecturer , interrupted me . “ My friend , you seem to be the only one around who thinks that ChatGPT is news . This information behemoth was launched in December 2022 . Angela and I have already talked about it . For sure , it will give Google a run for its money .”
I was perplexed that many things were happening on the internet without my knowledge . Seeing that my jaw was about to drop , Angela , a seasoned HR professional , said , “ This ChatGPT is just one of the latest babies in the world of chatbots which have been around for some time .”
As I imagined how these chatbots would revolutionize the delivery of HR services at workplaces , Angela interjected , “ We are now demanding high scores on Digital Quotient ( DQ ) for hiring and promotions .”
Multiple Quotients
Feeling naive , I briefly lectured them on other quotients , “ IQ measures intelligence and ability ; EQ helps with emotional intelligence , SQ is about working with others , and AQ helps with resilience and adaptability .”
In turn , Angela explained that DQ was the ability to navigate the digital world for performance improvement . For fear of exposing my ignorance , I refrained from finding out whether the use of social media platforms were included in DQ assessments .
Daudi , who had been listening pensively , remarked , “ Focusing too much on multiple quotients can be a distraction . It takes away the importance of IQ , which I think is paramount for employment purposes .” He went on to argue that employees should be hired and promoted based on their ability to perform specific job-related tasks .
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It ’ s important to remember that even with high multiple quotients , an employee may not possess the specific skills and experience required for a particular job . It ’ s also important to consider their past performance and potential for growth within the company .
Spiritual Intelligence
Unable to give Daudi the benefit of the doubt , Angela quickly said , “ We have mentioned just a few quotients . Others such as cultural intelligence and spiritual intelligence are also placed on the hiring table depending on employers ’ job requirements .” She clarified that employees with high multiple quotients are more well-rounded and capable of handling a diverse range of tasks and situations . They are better able to work in teams and communicate effectively with people from different backgrounds , leading to a more productive and cohesive work environment .
After hearing the argument from both sides , I said , “ IQ is important , but I also see the value in having employees with multiple quotients . I think that companies should strive for a balance , hiring employees with a mix of quotients and demonstrable abilities .” I decided to take a neutral stand , believing that employees with high quotients and various capabilities can contribute to the overall success of organizations .
Angela , who seemed to agree with me , said , “ The balance is key . Employees with high multiple quotients particularly SQ can help with team cohesion and effectively communicating with diverse groups .” She emphasized that in the long run , “ balanced ” employees would contribute towards better productivity and more innovation . Organizations can leverage employees ’ different strengths and perspectives to tackle work-related challenges and make better decisions .
Set Of Criteria
I cautioned my colleagues that employees with high multiple quotients should not be the only criteria for hiring and promotions ,
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