UK organisations that prioritise employee recognition are substantially more likely to cultivate emotionally intelligent workforces, according to recent findings.
A 2025 Global Culture Report by O.C. Tanner, a specialist in employee appreciation solutions, reveals that such organisations are eight times more likely to have employees with high emotional intelligence (EQ), while leaders are 14 times more likely to exhibit elevated EQ levels.
Emotional intelligence, the ability to recognise, understand and manage one’s own emotions while also recognising and influencing the emotions of others, is increasingly valued in modern workplaces. Employees with high EQ tend to communicate more effectively, collaborate better and adapt to change with greater ease. These qualities make emotionally intelligent employees crucial to fostering a positive work culture and improving organisational performance.
Robert Ordever, European managing director of O.C. Tanner, said that as automation at work grows, the human element remains irreplaceable.
“As we move towards greater workplace automation, one thing you simply can’t automate is relationships,” he said. “How you manage your own emotions and recognise and influence the feelings of others has become a crucial employee skill that organisations must nurture in this new era of work.”
Recognition as a Driver of Emotional Intelligence
The study, which surveyed 38,075 workers across 27 countries, including 4,896 from the UK, found that employees who frequently give recognition are seven times more likely to exhibit high emotional intelligence.
Likewise, those who often receive recognition from their leaders are five times more likely to demonstrate elevated EQ. These findings highlight the strong link between a culture of appreciation and the development of emotionally intelligent employees.
Organisations that integrate recognition into their daily operations see a marked improvement in workplace relationships. Employees in such environments report greater job satisfaction, a stronger sense of belonging and improved motivation.
The ability to give and receive recognition encourages behaviours that reinforce empathy, self-awareness and effective communication — all fundamental aspects of emotional intelligence.
How Organisations Can Foster Emotional Intelligence
Building a workplace culture that nurtures emotional intelligence requires more than just occasional praise, experts say. Organisations should train leaders and employees to listen empathetically, embrace feedback and remain adaptable in changing environments. Recognition should not be limited to formal awards but should be an ongoing practice that acknowledges small and large contributions alike.
Ordever said emotionally intelligent employees play a key role in workplace morale and engagement. “Those who excel in emotional intelligence have an ability to empathise, connect and inspire others. And this can be effectively nurtured in a number of ways, including through organisation-wide employee recognition for stirring powerful feelings of appreciation, belonging and connection.”
The Business Impact of Emotionally Intelligent Workforces
The report reveals that organisations that actively practise emotional intelligence are an astonishing 107 times more likely to thrive. It demonstrates the business case for integrating EQ-focused initiatives, as companies with high levels of emotional intelligence tend to see lower employee turnover, higher engagement and improved productivity.
A culture of recognition not only enhances emotional intelligence but also fosters innovation and resilience. Employees who feel valued are more likely to take initiative, collaborate effectively and navigate workplace challenges with confidence. This, in turn, contributes to a more dynamic and forward-thinking organisation.
Creating a Sustainable Recognition Culture
To make recognition a sustainable part of company culture, organisations should embed it into everyday interactions. A simple “thank you” or acknowledgment of a job well done can have a lasting impact on an employee’s motivation and sense of worth. Equally, peer-to-peer recognition can reinforce teamwork and create a supportive work environment where employees feel seen and appreciated.
Businesses should also ensure that recognition is meaningful and personalised. Generic or forced praise can feel insincere, whereas genuine appreciation, tailored to an individual’s efforts and achievements, can strengthen workplace relationships and enhance emotional intelligence.