The purpose of the research is to investigate the relation between managers’ self-perceived level of emotional intelligence and the psychological climate as perceived by the employees. The studies suggest that it is the emotional intelligence that contributes to the efficiency and professional growth of a leader as well as improves the interpersonal relationships in a working environment (Higgs & Aitken, 2003; Cann, 2004). It has been acknowledged that awareness of emotions and being able to control them contribute to the social competence of leaders (Elias, Arnold, & Steiger-Hussey, 2003). Managers with higher levels of emotional intelligence are more successful in the communication of their ideas and intentions as well as the definition of their aims, which, in its turn, favours a more positive functioning of employees in the working environment (Goleman, 1995).
Research question: Is there a relationship between the managers’ self-perceived level of emotional intelligence and the psychological climate as perceived by the employees?
Design: An emotional intelligence questionnaire (by authors) was used to determine the level of managers’ emotional intelligence. An organisational climate questionnaire (Organizational Climate Measure, OCM; Patterson, West, 2005; adaptation in Latvian by Roze, 2010, Riga) was used to find out the perception of the psychological climate by the employees. 127 respondents participated in the study, divided into 2 samples (managers of organisations and subordinates of each manager): 30 respondents (n=30) aged 25 – 69 years (57% males), (M=43.4, SD=7.9) and 97 respondents (n=97) aged 20 – 65 years (68% females), (M=43.4, SD=11.2). The respondents completed the questionnaires electronically and participated in the study voluntarily. Data were analysed using Pearson correlations and multiple regressions. The study revealed significant relation between manager’s emotional intelligence factors and employees perceived psychological climate factors.
Implications, limitations and advices for future research are provided.
