An Investigation of Interpersonal and Emotional Intelligence Competencies for Early-Career Insurance Professionals Across Mutual Insurance Companies

Abstract: A problem exists between employers and individuals they seek to hire with non-technical skills, adding value and leadership to their companies. These skills are hard to define and identify when interviewing candidates. The researcher further defined, clarified, and explored interpersonal and emotional intelligence competencies among early-career insurance professionals. Goleman’s research on emotional intelligence in the workforce provides a theoretical framework for this study. Goleman’s research determined that emotional intelligent employees consistently outperformed their more intelligent coworkers, lacking in emotional intelligence. A review of literature surrounding the early stages and benefits of emotional intelligence followed by emotional intelligence in leaders and the insurance industry will be shared. The research was conducted through semi-structured interviews with 16 insurance executives and two focus groups consisting of five insurance executives in the mutual insurance industry. These executives were selected and volunteered from Pennsylvania mutual insurance companies. Interviews were transcribed and coded to find recurring themes. This research benefits employers in their hiring practices and in identifying insurance professionals for leadership and promotion opportunities.

Key words: emotional intelligence, insurance

JEL codes: M5