Innovation requires creativity, risk-taking, and the ability to manage change effectively, all of which are closely linked to emotional intelligence. Individuals with high levels of emotional intelligence are more flexible, adaptable, and resilient in technological advancements and are better able to respond effectively to new challenges and opportunities. Thus, this study aims to recognize the significant role of emotional intelligence, along with the mediation of innovative work behavior (IWB) and the moderation role of cultural intelligence in the attainment of innovation performance. This is quantitative research and for data collection, a questionnaire was used in healthcare institutions. The result shows that emotional intelligence is an antecedent of innovation performance. The finding also proved that IWB mediates the linkage between emotional intelligence and innovation performance. In addition, the outcomes show that cultural intelligence strengthens the relationship between emotional intelligence and innovation performance. However, the current dynamic business world has created an urgency to understand the linkage between the employee's emotional intelligence and employee innovative performance, particularly taking into consideration the mediation effect of IWB. Emotional intelligence and innovation are closely linked, and innovative work behavior connects this link in a stronger way. This study offered a unique framework for achieving innovation performance through the nexus of emotional intelligence, innovative work behavior, and cultural intelligence.
Keywords: cultural intelligence; emotional intelligence; innovation performance; innovative work behavior.