Reflection #4: Multiple Intelligences at work

In Theories and Models, we discussed intelligence and its role in leadership and teamwork. We learned that the idea of intelligence goes far beyond what we typically think of as “intelligence,” or IQ (i.e. book smart, able to process information, etc.). Howard Gardner posits the theory of multiple intelligences, which recognizes 7 different types of intelligences beyond typical IQ intelligence. These 7 intelligences – musical, spatial, linguistic, bodily/kinesthetic, logical/mathematical, interpersonal, and intrapersonal – all have their place in human interactions, and especially in leadership. At Simpson Scarborough, in order to see a project through from start to finish, most of these intelligences must be utilized, musical and bodily/kinesthetic being the two unnecessary traits. Every project at Simpson Scarborough is built upon thorough research. In order to construct, carry out, and analyze this research, SS employees must use logical/mathematic intelligence. The process can be meticulous, requiring the ability to clearly understand the data before you. This kind of intelligence is also crucial to the marketing strategy phase, as this requires one to use the data to formulate a strategy for the client. This stage in the process also requires linguistic intelligence. One must come up with a creative and smart marketing and brand strategy and clearly communicate the strategy to the client. The last stage in the process is creative – the creation of a creative concept that encapsulates the newly created brand strategy. The creation of these concepts requires spatial intelligence. Graphic designers must know how to use the space they have to compose a compelling and clear creative design. Throughout the entire process, one must also utilize interpersonal and intrapersonal intelligence. Simpson Scarborough is, at its heart, a consulting firm; the company works with its clients to fulfill their needs. Sometimes there is a delicate line that must be tread – the line between what the client wants and what we know will work best. Navigating these client relationships requires emotional intelligence – a term not used by Gardner in his multiple intelligences theory, but quite similar to his concept of inter- and intrapersonal intelligence.