The effect of emotional intelligence on job satisfaction: a study on Lebanese non-profit organizations

Purpose This study aims to explore the relationship between emotional intelligence (EI) and job satisfaction among employees in Lebanese non-profit organizations. It aims to examine how EI dimensions affect job satisfaction in a sector facing significant external challenges. Design/methodology/approach Using a descriptive quantitative method, the study surveyed 420 employees from five Lebanese non-profit organizations. The research analysed the impact of EI dimensions on job satisfaction within the challenging socio-economic context of Lebanon from 2021 to 2022. Findings Contrary to extensive literature, indicating a positive correlation between EI and job satisfaction, this study finds no significant relationship between the two. However, it suggests that Lebanon’s economic instability, currency devaluation and the COVID-19 pandemic likely diminished the influence of EI on job satisfaction. Originality/value This study contributes to the literature by demonstrating how socio-economic crises can weaken the expected positive effects of EI on job satisfaction. It highlights the need to consider contextual influences in EI research and suggests exploring alternative predictors of job satisfaction in non-profit organizations.