Impact of emotional intelligence on job performance of academic heads with special reference to state universities in eastern province of Sri Lanka

Abstract

The concept of emotional intelligence (EI) has gained more popularity in recent decades and became a renowned topic in today‟s world of work. A remarkable attention is paid on EI due to its importance in work context and job performance. The major purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of emotional intelligence on job performance (JP).Population of this study consists of academic heads working in state universities in Eastern province of Sri Lanka. Total population sampling method was used since the population size is relatively small. Field survey was conducted using self-rating questionnaire. Out of total population (N=73),62 questionnaires were realized that ensured nearly 85% of response rate. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 20.0.Validity and reliability of the questionnaire was satisfactory. The results of the study showed that there is a strong positive correlation (r= 0.757) between EI and JP which was significant at 0.01 level.Future researchers can replicate this study with the sample of large size by covering a good number of public and private sector universities in Sri Lanka. And multi rater measurement scale can be used to obtain more worthwhile findings. The universities can gain better understanding regarding the significance of EI in predicting JP through this study. Further this study imply that it is essential to formulate strategies to promote EI of faculty members through continues education and training and by supporting EI learning efforts.