PM Simpson Miller's intelligence edge

Glenford Smith, career writer

I believe that the recently contested general election of December 29, 2011 provides a rich mine of valuable insights that can help you achieve your career aspirations, regardless of the obstacles you face. This column offers the first of two such lessons.

Here it is, straight up: A high IQ is overrated as a predictor of success. People's National Party leader Portia Simpson Miller's perceived limited intellectual acuity has been a perennial point of detraction.

Her erstwhile detractors have been among her party's more erudite echelon, as well as their Jamaica Labour Party counterparts.

She didn't stand a chance against the young, handsome, bright, and glib Andrew Holness, the political pundits prophesied confidently. Yet, she defied the prognosticators' predictions and won the election in a 42-21-seat landslide.

Okay, now back to you. What does this have to do with your getting a job, increasing your income, or getting a long-awaited promotion? A lot.

For one: Refuse to let other people tell you what you can or cannot do, because you aren't bright enough. You don't need superior intellectual brilliance—evidenced by a PhD, MBA, or First Class Honours Degree—to excel in business or in your profession. It's good if you have one of these, but it's not vital.

Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, Steve Jobs — none of these great American icons possessed degrees; they instead organised a team around them with strengths that compensated for their weaknesses.

skills needed

The fact is that a high IQ is not sufficient to guarantee performance excellence; you need some other skills besides impressive academic credentials.

What skills, you're wondering? I'll let two eminent scientific pioneers reveal their breakthrough ideas that have effectively debunked the IQ myth.

First is Dr Howard Gardner, whose theory of multiple intelligences proposed seven distinct, independent intelligences in his book Frames of Mind. PM Simpson Miller has mastered at least one, which many academically brilliant people lack, namely, 'interpersonal intelligence' used in understanding and relating well to other people.

This also relates to Dr Daniel Goleman's theory posited in his book Social Intelligence: The New Science of Human Relationships, which shows that humans are wired to connect. By learning how to relate to others' needs, values and interests, you gain enormous power to win their friendship and support. PM Simpson Miller is well liked by many because she knows how to connect with the masses.

Dr Goleman's seminal book, Emotional Intelligence: Why it Matters More than IQ, is also significant. He revealed that, more crucial than book knowledge, was the ability to manage stress, regulate anger, practise self-discipline, override fear and self-doubt, and maintain faith, self-motivation and optimism in the face of setbacks and adversities. Simpson Miller's resilience in the face of failures, criticisms and myriad challenges was a big factor in her victory.

Learn 'how to win friends and influence people'; develop a resilient spirit to persevere through your setbacks, and work hard. Regardless of your IQ, these abilities will give you the edge to succeed against any odds.

Glenford Smith is a motivational speaker and success strategist. He is the author of a new book 'From Problems to Power: How to Win Over Worry and Turn Your Obstacles into Opportunities'. Email glenfordsmith@yahoo.com.