Leader Emotional Intelligence, Behaviour and Job Performance Linkages Among 3D Printing Firms

Abstract

The emerging and innovative 3D printing industry in South Africa necessitate leaders with managerial skills such as emotional intelligence to improve employee job performance. This study seeks to examine the direct and mediating relationships between leader emotional intelligence, leader emotional behaviour and employee job performance among 3D printing firms in South Africa. A total of 148 employees from 3D printing firms in South Africa were randomly selected to participate in this study through the use of questionnaires. Structural equation modelling was used to test the hypotheses. The results of the study showed that a significant positive relationship exists between leader emotional intelligence and employee job performance as well as leader emotional intelligence and leader emotional behaviour. Moreover, a significant positive relationship was found to exist between leader emotional behaviour and employee job performance. The result also indicated that leader emotional behaviour mediates the relationship between leader emotional intelligence and employee job performance. The implication of this study designates emotional intelligence as a critical managerial skill that can effectively enhance employee job performance in 3D printing firms.