Emotional intelligence competencies in the team and team leader: A multi-level examination of the impact of emotional intelligence on group performance

This research examines the relationship between team leader emotional intelligence competencies, team level emotional intelligence, and team performance. It is argued here that team leader's emotional intelligence (EI) will influence the development of group level emotional intelligence, which was measured by a teams emotionally competent group norms (ECGN). Secondly, it is hypothesized that the presence of ECGNs will positively influence group effectiveness. Data were collected from 422 respondents representing 81 teams in a military organization. Results show that team leader emotional intelligence is significantly related to the presence of emotionally competent group norms on the teams they lead, and that emotionally competent group norms are related to team performance. This research contributes to the field by offering support for the affects team leaders emotional intelligence has on the teams they lead as well as by showing team level emotional intelligence affects team performance. Propositions for future research and practice are offered.