Measuring the Emotional Intelligence of Entrepreneurs

Abstract

This study aims to describe the existing tests for determining Emotional Intelligence (EI), identify problematic tasks, and determine ways to solve them. The article describes the most popular models of EI and their corresponding tools for measuring EI. Three main groups of questionnaires for measuring EI (ability-based model, trait-based model, mixed approach model) are described. Most of the tests for measuring EI are self-reported; therefore, the main disadvantage is their subjective evaluation. Also, the lack of EI assessment tools in the business environment is a promising area for EI application. Given the increasing interest in EI in business, management, and entrepreneurship, we suggested using the "EI in Business" questionnaire. According to the latest version of Goleman's mixed model, our test is based on four components, namely: Self-Awareness, Self-Management, Social-Awareness, and Relationship Management. The main disadvantage of subjective assessments of respondent's EI was proposed to be eliminated by interviewing colleagues on two components, which can be assessed from the outside (Self-Management and Relationship Management). Consequently, the final respondent's evaluation with the "EI in Business" questionnaire allowed to avoid the main problem of subjective assessment, and it became more reliable and accurate.