Emotional and Social Intelligence and its Impact on the Business Success of Bulgarian Digital Entrepreneurs
Year: 2024
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: The rapid development of digital technologies over the past two decades has created a new economic environment that requires continuous adaptation. However, paradoxically, increasing digitisation emphasises the importance of soft skills such as emotional and social intelligence. The present study aims to empirically analyse the relationship between these skills and the success of Bulgarian digital entrepreneurs. The results show that successful entrepreneurs demonstrate higher levels of emotional and social intelligence, with all its components – self-awareness, self-control, motivation, empathy and social skills – contributing significantly to entrepreneurial success. The importance of optimism for overcoming challenges in a dynamic digital environment is particularly emphasised. The conclusion is that, despite the specific requirements of digital business, the basic profile of a successful entrepreneur remains universal and is characterised by high emotional and social intelligence. Therefore, this study adds value to the literature on entrepreneurship, management, organisational behaviour, and human resource management, while it can contribute to the development of assessment tools, as well as training and development programs for emotional and social intelligence.
Authors: Ana Todorova, Irina Kostadinova
Institution: Angel Kanchev University of Ruse
Language: English
Subfield: Social Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4406503051