LEADERS’ EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE AS A MEDIATOR BETWEEN LEADERSHIP AND JOB SATISFACTION: A CONSERVATION OF RESOURCES THEORY PERSPECTIVE
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61837/mbuir030225026mKeywords:
emotional intelligence, transformational leadership, conservation of resources theory, job satisfaction, emotional supportAbstract
Job satisfaction is crucial for organizational success, and transformational leadership is widely recognized as a key driver. However, research has rarely explored how leaders’ emotional intelligence (EI) might act as a bridge between these two factors, leaving a gap in understanding. This study investigates whether EI mediates the link between individualized consideration (a core aspect of transformational leadership) and job satisfaction. According to the Conservation of Resources theory, we view emotional support as a crucial resource provided by leaders. Data from 275 employees in Serbia’s insurance sector were analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM) in SmartPLS 4, with standardized scales measuring leadership behaviors, EI, and job satisfaction. Results revealed that leaders’ EI fully mediates the relationship between individualized consideration and job satisfaction, while other transformational leadership traits showed no direct effects. Importantly, EI directly enhances job satisfaction, functioning as both a mediator and an independent contributor. This research advances leadership theory by clarifying how emotional support underpins effective leadership, validating teamwork’s role in fostering satisfaction, and offering actionable insights for EI-focused leadership training programs
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