Predicting Emotional Intelligence in Maritime Management: Imperative, Yet Elusive

There is extensive literature addressing the subject of “emotional intelligence” (EI) and its importance to the profile of leaders and models of leadership. Despite what some have argued as the sine qua non of leadership, there are arguably few, if any, valid instruments available to predict demonstration of EI competencies. This paper focuses on EI and challenges to measurement as it relates to leadership development in maritime management —where EI competencies are deemed critical to effective performance. The authors review and evaluate current instruments that claim to measure EI, survey hiring practices in selected companies in the shipping industry, and make recommendations for further research.