Can emotional intelligence be improved? A randomized experimental study of a business-oriented EI training program for senior managers

PLoS One. 2019 Oct 23;14(10):e0224254. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0224254. eCollection 2019.

Abstract

Purpose: This article presents the results of a training program in emotional intelligence.

Design/methodology/approach: Emotional Intelligence (EI) involves two important competencies: (1) the ability to recognize feelings and emotions in oneself and others, and (2) the ability to use that information to resolve conflicts and problems to improve interactions with others. We provided a 30-hour Training Course on Emotional Intelligence (TCEI) for 54 senior managers of a private company. A pretest-posttest design with a control group was adopted.

Findings: EI assessed using mixed and ability-based measures can be improved after training.

Originality/value: The study's results revealed that EI can be improved within business environments. Results and implications of including EI training in professional development plans for private organizations are discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Emotional Intelligence*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Leadership*
  • Male
  • Negotiating / psychology

Grants and funding

This research was supported by the Spanish Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness (EDU2015-64562-R) to R.G-C. The funders had no role in study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript.