The Emotional Intelligence of Entrepreneurs

Entrepreneurship research has recognized the entrepreneur as catalyst to the new venture process. Apopular stream of research not yet applied to entrepreneurship has been the study of the emotional intelligence of entrepreneurial venture leaders. This web-based exploratory study collected self-assessment data of emotional competencies on successful young entrepreneurs. Participating entrepreneurs reported that they demonstrated high levels of self-confidence, trustworthiness, achievement orientation, service orientation, change catalyst, teamwork and collaboration. Trustworthiness, the ability to maintain standards of honesty and integrity, was ranked highest among 18 emotional competencies measured. The importance of teamwork and collaboration in the new venture process is also emphasized in the findings.