Determining the correlation between emotional intelligence and job motivation among nursing staff in public hospitals in Ilam City, Iran

Emotional intelligence (EI) is a critical factor in enhancing human resource management and organizational performance. It serves as a modern tool for managers to guide individuals effectively. Job motivation reflects employees’ willingness to overcome workplace challenges and adapt to their roles. This study examines the impact of EI on the job motivation of nurses in public hospitals in Ilam, Iran. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in 2024 among nurses working in public hospitals in Ilam. Using Cochran’s formula, a sample size of 178 was determined, with 142 participants completing the questionnaires. Data were collected using the Bar-On Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire and the Hackman and Oldham Job Motivation Questionnaire. Pearson’s correlation test was employed to analyze the relationship between EI and job motivation using SPSS software (version 20). A significant positive correlation was found between EI and job motivation among nurses. The Pearson correlation coefficients for EI components were as follows: self-awareness (r = 0.542, p = 0.021), self-respect (r = 0.782, p = 0.033), social skills (r = 0.757, p = 0.037), empathy (r = 0.615, p = 0.015), and flexibility (r = 0.631, p = 0.010). These findings indicate a strong, positive, and significant relationship between EI components and job motivation. The study highlights the importance of EI in enhancing job motivation among nurses. Hospital managers can improve motivation by implementing EI training programs, which may lead to increased job satisfaction and better hospital performance.