Meet Lori Stephenson: Applying Emotional Intelligence to personal and professional performance

Meet Lori Stephenson, an instructor who specializes in the areas of leadership and team development, coaching, emotional intelligence, and facilitation. Lori has been an instructor with McMaster Continuing Education since 2012, teaching courses including the Art of Active Listening and Emotional Intelligence at Work.

Can you tell us a little about yourself?

I love helping people become more effective in their lives. I am a Facilitator, Coach, and Speaker. I have my own coaching practice and focus on Leadership Development, Emotional Intelligence, Communication, Team Effectiveness, and Change. I believe that growth starts with self-awareness and is supported with inspired action.

What made you want to become an instructor with McMaster Continuing Education?

When I started my business, I was keen to partner with an organization committed to supporting people in their learning journey. When the opportunity to be an instructor with McMaster Continuing Education was presented, I said yes. I’ve been facilitating courses here for more than 12 years. I love the people I meet, the conversations we have, and the learning that comes from the experience.

What courses do you teach, and which one do you want to highlight today?

I have taught many courses over the years. The ones I’m currently teaching are the Art of Active Listening and Emotional Intelligence at Work. Let’s dive into Emotional Intelligence today.

Who would benefit from taking this course?

Everyone. Emotional Intelligence is a better predictor of success. It is just as important as IQ and credentials. Emotional Intelligence is dynamic, so it can be strengthened. The challenges we face in life are usually linked to our ability to adjust to change: to cope with stress, to make good decisions, to communicate effectively, and to feel focused, motivated, and confident. Emotional Intelligence is at the root of all. If we can understand how our emotions affect us, we can improve how we respond and ultimately have a better outcome.

What will students learn from taking this course?

They will learn more about Emotional Intelligence and their emotional capabilities and areas for development. They will leave with actions on how to develop their level of emotional intelligence and ultimately make them more effective at work and at home.

Do you have any advice or tips for students?

Come with openness to seeing the role emotions play in all aspects of our lives. Come willing to challenge some long-standing patterns.

Is there anything else about you that you want to highlight?

My goal is to create an environment that is open, fun, trusting, and supportive. As a facilitator, I focus on bringing out the ideas from others, inviting perspectives, and encouraging active participation. It’s more fun when we all contribute.

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­­­Looking to hone your EQ? Learn more about Lori’s Emotional Intelligence course and explore other McMaster Continuing Education Essentials programs and courses.