Appraisal of the Effects of Emotional Intelligence on Leadership Styles of Managers of SMES in Ghana

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to estimate the relative degrees of significance of the effects of emotional intelligence on leadership styles of managers of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Ghana. Design/Methodology/Approach: A theoretical framework was developed from the Goleman’s mixed model of emotional intelligence, and the best–worst method was used to analyse and rate the identified effects according to their weighted averages. Findings: Self-regulation was found to be the most significant dimension of the effects of emotional intelligence on leadership styles. The highest ranked effects within the dimensions were: self-management/regulation; ability to lead effectively as per expectations; aware of the emotions of others; empathy; and effectively communicating with all stakeholders. Implications/Research Limitation: It is projected that the results of the study would contribute to literature on the effects of emotional intelligence on leadership styles of managers of SMES. However, the study had limitations since it was somewhat based on the perceptions of SME managers in Ghana, which may be tainted with prejudice. Practical Implication: The findings of the study would provide direction for policymakers and SME managers on the importance of the effects of emotional intelligence on leadership styles of managers of SMEs in Ghana. Originality/Value: This study estimates the effects of emotional intelligence on leadership styles of managers of SMEs and corroborates research on emotional intelligence and leadership styles. However, the context and method of this current study are different from others in literature.