Interrelationship between emotional intelligence and trust in the workplace among public servants

Abstract

Purpose. The purpose of this study is to investigate the interrelationship between emotional intelligence and trust in the workplace. Emotional intelligence implies a set of skills and competencies that predetermine perception, evaluating, understanding and managing emotions. The constructive emotional activity of employees promotes the formation of a sequence of the actions, truthfulness, effective communication, mutual assistance and overall acceptance of organizational norms and strategies. Study design. The article is based on a study conducted among the staff of a government agency located in the administrative center of the province of Kastamonu (Turkey). Emotional intelligence is represented by 'self-emotion appraisal', 'others' emotion appraisal', 'use of emotion' and 'regulation of emotion'. 'Self-emotion appraisal' is characterized by the ability to understand personal emotions and express them naturally. 'Others' emotion appraisal' creates sensitivity to the emotions of others and helps to draw conclusions about their intentions. 'Use of emotion' refers to the capability to channel them into constructive activities. 'Regulation of emotion' involves controlling emotions in order to cope with a crisis. Trust in the workplace embodies the confidence of employees in mutual good faith, the conviction that each of them will fulfill their function to the fullest and will make a voluntary contribution to total labor productivity. Findings. The findings of the study revealed a positive correlation between emotional intelligence and trust in the workplace; meaningful and constructive use of emotions determines the growth of trust in the workplace. Value of the results. The results of this study state the importance of emotional competence in the context of uniting employees around the corporate mission and optimizing production synergy in organizations.