Reynaldo C. Lugtu, Jr. l November 17, 2023 l The Manila Times
FIRST there was Covid-19, then there was the Russo-Ukrainian war; now there is the Israel-Palestine war, not to mention the risk of escalation in the South China Sea.
Indeed, in the fast-paced and ever-evolving landscape of the 21st century, the importance of traditional metrics like intelligence quotient (IQ) and emotional intelligence (EQ) is being challenged by the emergence of a new player — adaptability quotient (AQ). While IQ measures cognitive abilities and EQ gauges emotional intelligence, AQ encapsulates an individual’s ability to adapt to change. Why is AQ becoming increasingly crucial?
One driver is the rapid technological advancements. The Fourth Industrial Revolution has ushered in unprecedented technological advancements, transforming industries and job requirements. A study conducted by the World Economic Forum highlights that by 2025, over half of all employees will require significant reskilling. AQ becomes pivotal in this scenario, as individuals need to continuously adapt to new technologies and methodologies.
Another driver is globalization and interconnectedness. These have intensified, necessitating individuals to collaborate across diverse cultures and time zones. AQ enables effective navigation of multicultural environments, fostering collaboration and innovation. A case study on multinational corporations reveals that teams with higher AQ demonstrate better problem-solving skills and resilience in cross-cultural challenges.
How different is AQ versus IQ and EQ? While EQ emphasizes emotional regulation and understanding, and IQ measures cognitive abilities and problem-solving skills, AQ focuses on flexibility and the ability to embrace change. In a study by Goleman and Boyatzis, it was found that individuals with high EQ tend to excel in stable environments, but AQ becomes the determining factor when faced with uncertainty and dynamic situations. Moreover, a study published in the Journal of Applied Psychology found that individuals with a higher AQ are better equipped to adapt their problem-solving approaches to fit changing circumstances.
Another difference is that EQ contributes to interpersonal skills and AQ plays a crucial role in fostering innovation and creativity. Research by Harvard Business Review suggests that organizations with a high AQ culture are more likely to encourage experimentation and risk-taking, fostering an environment conducive to innovation.
On the other hand, IQ tends to be associated with static knowledge and intellectual abilities. In contrast, AQ is closely tied to the concept of continuous learning. In a longitudinal study, researchers found that individuals with a higher AQ actively seek out opportunities for learning and skill development, positioning themselves as lifelong learners in an ever-changing world.
Developing and nurturing AQ among organization members has its benefits. Companies that prioritize AQ often adopt agile methodologies, allowing them to respond swiftly to market changes. For instance, during the Covid-19 pandemic, companies with a strong AQ were better equipped to pivot their business models and operations to meet the new demands of a remote and digitally driven landscape.
In addition, forward-thinking educational institutions are incorporating AQ into their curricula. A study conducted across several schools revealed that students exposed to adaptive learning environments, emphasizing AQ, demonstrated higher levels of resilience and problem-solving abilities, better preparing them for the uncertainties of the future job market.
In conclusion, the need for AQ in the contemporary era is evident. As the world becomes increasingly complex and dynamic, individuals and organizations must prioritize the ability to adapt to change. While IQ and EQ remain valuable, AQ emerges as the missing piece of the puzzle, ensuring individuals not only possess the intellectual and emotional tools but also the agility required to navigate the challenges of an ever-changing world. Studies and real-world examples converge to underscore the critical role of AQ in shaping successful individuals and organizations in the 21st century.
*** The author is the founder and CEO of Hungry Workhorse, a digital, culture and customer experience transformation consulting firm. He is a fellow at the US-based Institute for Digital Transformation. He is the chairman of the Digital Transformation IT Governance Committee of Finex Academy. He teaches strategic management and digital transformation in the MBA Program of De La Salle University. The author may be emailed at rey.lugtu@hungryworkhorse.com.