Influences of emotional intelligence on transformational leadership and leader-member exchange in Kuwait

The study aims to explore the influences of emotional intelligence on transformational leadership and leader-member exchange in Kuwait's business environment. A quantitative survey was used in this research resulting in 191 final responses. The findings reveal that leaders in Kuwait, as perceived by survey participants, exhibit emotional intelligence through self-awareness, self-management, relationship management and social awareness. These emotional intelligence dimensions affect transformational leadership behaviours through vision articulation, individualised support, communication of performance expectations and intellectual stimulation. Emotional intelligence and transformational leadership further contribute to leader-member exchange in affect, loyalty, contribution and professional respect. Findings also indicate a partial mediating effect of transformational leadership on the relationship between emotional intelligence and leader-member exchange. Implications for human resource development and call for future research are discussed.