Do hotel managers deal with employees' emotions? A proposed methodology using EEG devices

Purpose The paper emphasizes the critical role of managing employees' emotions in human resource management policies and practices, particularly within the hospitality industry. It aims to highlight the impact of emotions on workplace performance, well-being and organizational growth. Also, it proposes using innovative methodologies, such as electroencephalography (EEG) technology, to assess and understand employee emotions more effectively, seeking to enhance employee satisfaction, commitment and performance. Design/methodology/approach The paper’s design and methodology combined a questionnaire survey approach with the use of a portable EEG device on a sample of twenty hotel employees in Thessaloniki (Greece). Participants were asked to fulfill a validated questionnaire while an EEG device was used to input data regarding the specific emotions to observe and register the interplay between them. Data were processed employing descriptive, network and centrality analysis. Findings Results show that each employee has a complex network of primary and secondary emotions, indicating a sequence of interrelationships that comprehensively outline the employees' profiles. Based on findings, practical interventions were suggested such as: assign stimulating tasks, implement stress reduction programs, redesign workplaces, reevaluate roles and foster team cohesion. Research limitations/implications The study’s limitations include the generalization of the control method and the time-consuming nature of evaluating the data obtained from the experimental process. Additionally, the authors suggest exploring a broader range of emotions to form employees' more comprehensive emotional topography. Practical implications The paper highlights the need to incorporate emotional awareness into human resource management practices, particularly in the hospitality industry. Understanding and managing employees' emotions can enhance productivity, employee satisfaction and innovation while monitoring emotional profiles can aid in developing motivational strategies and improving employee engagement and performance. Social implications Organizations can enhance employee satisfaction, well-being and interpersonal relationships by fostering emotional awareness, leading to a more cohesive and supportive work culture. This can result in reduced stress levels, increased motivation and better mental health for employees, contributing to overall societal well-being. Originality/value The paper’s originality lies in its innovative approach to understanding and managing employee emotions in the hospitality industry through EEG technology. Researchers established a network topology of primary, secondary, central, peripheral and influencing emotions, offering valuable insights into human resource management practices.