The Relationship of the Components of Emotional Intelligence with Organizational Agility in the Healthcare Network

Abstract

Background: The paradigm of organizational agility is a new concept that embodies the most favorable organizational status considering the existing developments. Moreover, emotional intelligence (EI) is a major factor contributing to success in occupational settings and social relationships. Objectives: The present study was therefore conducted to explain the relationship of the components of EI with organizational agility in the healthcare network. Methods: The present correlational cross-sectional study was conducted in 2017 on 148 employees of the healthcare network of Kangavar-Iran, who were selected using simple random sampling. Data collection tools comprised the standard Goleman’s emotional intelligence test (EIT) with a reliability coefficient of 0.89 and Spitzer’s organizational agility scale with a reliability coefficient of 0.92. The data collected were analyzed using the Pearson correlation test, the t-test, regression analysis and structural equations modeling. Results: The t-test found the status of EI and organizational agility to be desirable. The results of the Pearson test also suggested positive and significant relationships between EI and organizational agility. Moreover, regression analysis found self-awareness to predict 32% of variations in organizational agility, self-management to predict 28%, social awareness 19% and relationship management 36%. Conclusions: Given the positive effects of EI on organizational agility, the managers of the healthcare system are recommended to lay the foundations for improving organizational agility through paying attention to EI.