PERCEPTION OF MANAGERS REGARDING EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE TRAINING BY USE OF A DELPHI STUDY

Abstract

Incorporating emotional intelligence training into managerial development efforts resulted in a notable 13% decrease in employee turnover. The Delphi study addressed a critical gap, revealing that many small utility companies lack a structured emotional intelligence training program for their managers. Employing Goleman and Mayer's framework as the theoretical foundation, the study analyzed participant responses across three rounds of questioning. Eligible participants, possessing at least three years of managerial experience coupled with human resource expertise, were recruited. Through iterative rounds of inquiry involving 18 participants, thematic codes were developed, indicating evolving perspectives. The panel achieved a robust consensus against the efficacy of emotional intelligence training for managers, with a weaker consensus regarding potential participation in companywide initiatives. These findings underscore the imperative of implementing emotional intelligence training within small utility companies, thereby facilitating positive social change.