Decoding Emotional Intelligence in the Digital Era: A Comparative Study of Gen Y and Gen Z in the IT Landscape

Abstract

Purpose: The current research studies the emotional intelligence of Generation Y and Generation Z workers in the IT industry & also analyses the relationship between emotional intelligence and work performance.

Theoretical framework: Organizations have seen a pattern of ongoing changes in the workplace for the past decade. Current management in organizations observes different workstyles that have promoted the thought of not only the common skills but to explore them further with regards to disparate domains. Therefore, the notion of emotional intelligence has become an essential element for achieving success in today's idea of professionalism. Presently, three generations that present at work are Generation X, Y & Z. All the three generations have their own unique characteristics and behaviours.

Design/methodology/approach: Both qualitative and quantitative data are presented in the study. A survey of the literature was interpreted and examined in relation to both generations.

Primary Data for the study was collected with the help of a standardized questionnaire. To examine the data gathered from the questionnaire, the z test was used at a 5% significance level.

Findings: Major findings reveal that Generation Z people are better than generation Y people in controlling their own emotions and those of their co-workers. However, it has been discovered that millennials are better able to control their emotions under stress. The analysis of the data also revealed a moderately favourable association between emotional intelligence (EI) and job performance, which suggests that those with higher EI tend to be more productive at work.

Research, Practical and Social Implications: The study will help the organizations to formulate appropriate policies for Gen Y and Gen Z employees and will help these generations to better manage their emotions

Originality/Value: No previous work is conducted on comparing the emotional intelligence of Gen Y and Gen Z.