Exploring the Nexus of Emotional Intelligence and University Performance: An Investigation Through Perceived Organizational Support and Innovative Work Behavior

PURPOSE: This study is based on the ability-based theory of emotional intelligence (EI), organizational support theory, and componential theory of creativity. This study intended to investigate organizational performance (OP) against academics’ EI in higher education institutions (HEIs) in China. This study further scrutinized perceived organizational support (POS) and innovative work behavior (IWB) as mediators among these associations. Similarly, the inter-link between POS and IWB was investigated. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: Chinese HEIs academicians (327) were examined using quantitative and cross-sectional research methods. Likewise, PLS-SEM, that is, partial least squares structural equation modeling, was used as a data analysis method to examine assumed relationships statistically. FINDINGS: The extracted findings established the anticipated relationships, and the results validated that EI had a direct and positive association with OP in HEIs. Similarly, the findings revealed that IWB partially mediated the association between EI and OP; however, full mediation was observed in the case of POS. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: This study emphasizes the importance of unindustrialised glamorous blend of EI and OP in HEIs. In addition, the findings asserted that HEIs staff evaluate and control high-voltage circumstances that assure an effectual valuation and supervision of the self and others’ emotions. Equally, EI amplifies POS, which flares up the IWB while enriching OP in HEIs. ORIGINALITY/VALUE: This study examined OP alongside academicians’ EI in HEIs, which is among the initial pieces of research on HEIs. Additionally, the wholesome research nexus that scrutinizes POS and IWB as an inter-link between EI and OP in HEIs is original.