Beyond Technical Expertise: Trait Emotional Intelligence as a Predictor of Transformational Leadership in IT Organizations

Autori:

Sergiu URSAN, Iraida MUSTEAȚĂ

Cod: ISSN: 1583-3410 (print), ISSN: 1584-5397 (electronic)
Dimensiuni: pp. 169-182

How to cite this article:

Ursan, S., Musteață, I. (2026). Beyond Technical Expertise: Trait Emotional Intelligence as a Predictor of Transformational Leadership in IT Organizations. Revista de Cercetare si Interventie Sociala, 93, 169-182, DOI: 10.33788/rcis.93.10

Abstract:

The relationship between emotional intelligence and transformational leadership has gained increasing attention due to the growing need for adaptive leadership styles in dynamic organizational environments. The present study examined the relationship between trait emotional intelligence, and transformational leadership within the Romanian IT industry. The sample consisted of 474 employees working in Romanian IT companies. Multiple linear regression analyses were conducted while controlling for socio-demographic and organizational variables, including age, gender, educational level, work arrangement, company type, professional experience, employer location, and company size. The results indicated that emotional intelligence had a positive and statistically significant effect on transformational leadership. The findings highlight the importance of emotional competencies for leadership effectiveness in technology-oriented environments and contribute to the growing literature on trait emotional intelligence and transformational leadership in the IT sector. The study also provides practical implications for leadership development and organizational management in technology-based companies.