Emotional Intelligence and Transformational Leadership to Foster Sustainability
Dr. Barbara A. Alston, Dr. Barbara Dastoor, Dr. Claudette Chin-Loy

Abstract
Emotional intelligence (EI) is an increasingly important topic in organizational studies. Research findings show that successful leaders have feelings that enable empathy, compassion, flexibility, and the ability to influence. Higher levels of EI influence a leaders’ ability to make better business decisions, leading to greater efficiency and sustainability for the organization. The research presented used SSEIT (Schutte Self Report Emotional Intelligence Test) to assess emotional intelligence and Kouzes and Posner’s Leadership Practices Inventory (LPI) to measure leadership practices. Using multiple regression analysis, the authors found one emotional intelligence factor, the appraisal of emotion in self/others, was related to leadership. Longevity in supervision was also positively related to leadership. This study supports the position that emotional stability and EI are important factors for organizational leadership and sustainability. Leaders with high EI make better business decisions because they engage more, leading to higher productivity and sustainability. Implications and recommendations are provided.

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