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What Is Political Intelligence (PQ)?

While it’s often misunderstood as a negative force – the term “office politics” hardly has positive connotations – political intelligence (PQ) is in fact a key skill for leaders who wish to create positive change.

Managers are forced to reconcile diverse, often conflicting, interests which have the potential to erode culture and create bad feeling among staff members, effectively stunting productivity and growth.
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With PQ, you gain the ability to balance various stakeholders’ needs and keep everybody progressing toward shared goals. Within the 5Qs framework, PQ is one of the five core intelligences – alongside IQ, EQ, RQ, and MQ – that high-performing, mission-driven leaders, like you, can use to thrive in complex environments.
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An Example of PQ in Action

Giles’s company is experiencing a merger, and he has a clear agenda: to secure favourable terms and maintain cultural harmony. He approaches negotiations authentically and thoughtfully, sharing his commitment to mutual success to reassure his team (EQ).


When concerns about layoffs arise, he adapts his strategy, proposing a phased integration to promote trust. He balances his original agenda with flexibility and an ability to adapt, using PQ to achieve a successful, collaborative merger outcome where everyone feels happy and listened to.

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In many ways, the political quotient can be viewed as a more extreme version of emotional intelligence (EQ). While a leader with strong EQ skills can deftfully build relationships and foster trust, PQ takes these skills further by adding strategic intent. Sign up to the PQ course to learn more!

Political Intelligence (PQ) Course Overview

Key Objectives

Boost Team Dynamics When EQ Limits are Maxed Out

PQ builds on EQ by teaching you how to negotiate and influence effectively when collaboration requires you to.

Balance Agenda-Driven Influence with Authenticity

Learn how to pursue strategic objectives while maintaining relationships, blending empathy with influence.

Tackle Office Politics with Subtlety and Intent

PQ encourages positive political engagement, helping you manage your influence based on situational needs.

Skills Covered

  • Strategic Influence and Relationship-Building
  • Balancing Transparency and Subtlety While Pursuing Agendas
  • Conflict Resolution and Negotiation Techniques
  • Bolstering EQ-Driven Team Dynamics through PQ Skills

“Office politics aren’t something you can sit out. Most people look down upon them, but the truth is, they are a part of every organisation.” 

Niven Postma, Leadership, Culture and Organisational Politics Expert

5Q Leadership Intelligence series

What's included?

Political Intelligence (PQ) is the ability to navigate a way forward through diverse stakeholders’ agendas while ensuring continued engagement with critical players. Enrol to learn how!

Microlearning Videos

Case Studies

Reflection Stations

Certificate of Completion

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The 5Qs Leadership Intelligence Framework: Shaping Future-Ready Leaders

Frequently asked questions

What is the duration of this course?

This course consists of multiple high-quality videos, reflection stations, and case studies in action for an average time commitment of 3-5 hours.

Can I access the content at my own pace?

Yes, the 5Qs leadership intelligence series is self-paced, enabling you to access the content at your own pace for optimal engagement and accessibility.

How long can I access the course for?

Once purchased, courses are accessible for the lifetime of the platform.