Unfolding the relationship between emotional intelligence and performance: organizational citizenship behavior as a mediator and emotional exhaustion as a moderator

Purpose This study aims to explore the relationship between emotional intelligence (EI) and performance. Based on the job demands and resources (JD-R) and conservation of resources (COR) theories, a conceptual model is developed showing organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) as a mediator and emotional exhaustion as a moderator in influencing relationships. Design/methodology/approach Data were collected from 382 faculty members from higher educational institutions (HEIs) in southern India using a quantitative research method. After checking the measurement model with the LISREL package of structural equation modeling, hypotheses were tested using hierarchical regression. Findings The findings indicate that (1) EI is a significant predictor of performance and OCB, (2) OCB mediates between EI and performance and (3) emotional exhaustion moderates between EI and OCB. Originality/value Though research on EI and OCB is phenomenal, relatively few studies were focused on faculty members from HEIs, especially in the context of a developing country, India. The pioneering focus of this study is that OCB as a mediator and emotional exhaustion as a moderator has been, to the best of our knowledge, the first of its kind. The two-way interaction and mediation contribute to the burgeoning literature on EI and OCB.