Smarter Emotions, Stronger Workplaces
Read Full Research
Researchers Robert J. Emmerling and Cary Cherniss reviewed more than three decades of research to clarify what emotional intelligence (EI) really is, how it should be measured, and whether it actually improves work performance. Their article introduces a special issue of Consulting Psychology Journal focused on EI in the workplace.
Rather than running a single experiment, the researchers synthesized findings from dozens of large studies and meta-analyses involving tens of thousands of workers across industries—from healthcare and education to engineering and sales. They examined different ways EI is defined (as an ability, personality trait, or observable skill), how it is measured, and how it relates to real-world outcomes like job performance, leadership effectiveness, job satisfaction, and health.
The takeaway: EI matters—and it’s not just a buzzword. Higher emotional intelligence is consistently linked to better performance, stronger leadership, higher pay over time, and improved well-being. Importantly, the research also shows EI can be developed through targeted training, with benefits that last months or even years.
One surprising finding is that EI is not universally helpful in every context. In emotionally demanding jobs where workers must “fake” emotions—such as nursing—higher EI can sometimes increase stress unless organizations support authentic emotional expression.
Why it matters: For everyday workers, managers, and employers, the research offers evidence-based guidance on hiring, leadership development, and training. As Emmerling notes, EI can be a powerful tool—but only when it’s clearly defined, measured correctly, and supported by workplace culture.
(ChatGPT, December 16, 2025)
