Spring Forward HR 2026--Justin Bariso

Justin Bariso | Emotional Intelligence for HR Leaders | Spring Forward HR Emotional intelligence isn’t just a leadership buzzword—it’s a practical skill that helps HR professionals navigate difficult conversations, deliver feedback, and influence outcomes in high-stakes situations. In this session from Spring Forward HR, author and emotional intelligence expert Justin Bariso explains how HR professionals can use emotional intelligence to better understand others, manage their own reactions, and communicate in ways that actually move conversations forward. Drawing on real workplace scenarios, Justin breaks down the key components of emotional intelligence and shows how they apply directly to the daily challenges HR leaders face—from performance discussions to conflict resolution. In this session, you’ll learn: • How emotional intelligence helps HR professionals influence outcomes • Why self-awareness is the foundation of effective leadership • Techniques for managing emotional reactions in difficult conversations • How to deliver and receive feedback more effectively • Practical tools for applying emotional intelligence at work Whether you're dealing with a difficult employee, coaching a struggling manager, or navigating sensitive workplace issues, emotional intelligence can help you respond with clarity instead of reacting in the moment. Speaker: Justin Bariso Author and Emotional Intelligence expert This session was recorded as part of Spring Forward HR, a virtual conference designed to give HR professionals practical tools for leading in a complex workplace.