Emotional intelligence: the success of the future

The world is constantly changing and organizations need Human Resources capable of adapting and creating differentiating advantages. The aim of this study is to investigate and establish the relationship between emotional intelligence and a number of variables in the work context of Certified Accountants, including individual performance evaluation (self-perceived performance), work experience and the established working relationship. The research was carried out using a quantitative methodological approach. To this end, a questionnaire survey was carried out using the trait model, more specifically the self-report scale of Schutte et al. (1998). The sample was made up of 142 Certified Accountants aged between 20 and 70. The results show an increase in emotional intelligence proportional to years of experience in the profession, as well as a positive relationship between emotional intelligence (total and factors) and self-perceived performance at work. There appear to be no discrepancies between the emotional intelligence of self-employed workers (entrepreneurs) and employees.