The rules of work are in a constant state of flux. New benchmarks are being developed and used by which employees can be evaluated. The advent of the emotional intelligence phenomenon over the last decade has questioned traditional views of what it takes to be, for example, an effective manager or an effective organization. The view that high emotional intelligence may lead to personal and professional success has generated interest in, among others, academics, managers and the general public. According to opinion and workplace testimonials in some circles, emotional intelligence positively influences individual performance. This paper attempts to, inter alia, provide an understanding of the phenomenon of emotional intelligence (EQ); provide a perspective of EQ in the workplace; probe EQ competencies for effective management; and examines the impact of EQ on organizational success.