Bridging the EI Gap

This chapter investigates the role of Emotional Intelligence (EI) in the public sector, using the Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire – Short Form (TEIQue-SF) developed by Petrides and Furnham (2006) as its theoretical framework. The review aims to identify how key EI dimensions—well-being, self-control, emotionality and sociability, motivation, and adaptability—impact organizational effectiveness, employee satisfaction, and leadership in public administration. Special attention is given to the Greek public sector. Findings suggest that Emotional Intelligence significantly influences employee performance, resilience, and cooperation within public organizations. Internationally, high EI correlates with better leadership outcomes and workplace climate. In the Greek context, although awareness of EI is increasing, its integration into recruitment, training, and evaluation systems remains limited. Cultural and systemic constraints often inhibit the full development and application of EI in Greek public administration.