Emotional Intelligence and Leader Outcomes: A Comprehensive Review and Roadmap for Future Inquiry

A different skillset that includes Emotional Intelligence (EQ) might be required for leaders to succeed in their increasingly complex jobs. While a range of studies examined the relationship between EQ and leadership, there have been few recent efforts to review them comprehensively and systematically. With empirical research evolving quickly and the rising popularity of EQ among HRD professionals, there is a need to synthesize past research findings. To address this issue, we systematically reviewed 101 empirical studies that investigated the relationship between leader EQ and leader outcomes in terms of leadership styles and behaviors, well-being, and performance. Our findings indicate that leader EQ is positively associated with a range of outcomes beneficial to the leader, with benefits potentially more far-reaching than previously assumed. We conclude our review by outlining practical implications for HRD professionals and key directions to further advance this domain of research.