Impact of Emotional Intelligence and General Health Condition on Job Performance of Individuals

Abstract

Objective: Considering the importance of job performance at both organizational and individual levels, this study examined the relationship between emotional intelligence (EI), general health condition (operationalized as psychological distress using the GHQ-12), and job performance. It also explored gender differences in job performance and the predictive role of EI and general health condition.

Method: A sample of 100 respondents (58 males, 42 females) employed in various organizations in Pakistan was recruited using convenience sampling through an online survey administered via Google Forms. Data were collected using three self-report instruments: the Schutte Self-Report Emotional Intelligence Test (SSEIT), the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12), and the Individual Work Performance Questionnaire (IWPQ). Statistical analyses included Pearson correlation, independent samples t-test, and multiple linear regression.

Results: Results indicated a significant positive correlation between EI and job performance (r = 0.68, p < .001) and a significant negative correlation between GHQ-12 scores (indicating psychological distress) and job performance (r = -0.25, p < .01), suggesting that lower psychological distress is associated with better job performance. No significant gender differences were found in job performance (p = .27). Regression analysis revealed that EI (β = 0.67, p < .001) and GHQ-12 scores (β = -0.23, p < .01) were significant predictors of job performance, together explaining 52% of the variance (R² = 0.52).

Conclusion: The findings highlight the importance of emotional intelligence and mental health in enhancing employee performance. However, results should be interpreted cautiously due to limitations related to sample size, non-probability sampling, and the exclusive use of self-report measures.