EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE AND TURNOVER INTENTIONS AMONG TEACHING STAFF IN KENYAN PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES

Abstract

In Kenya, universities are relied upon by the society to create, conserve and disseminate knowledge which is in realization of sustainable development. Teaching staff are the key staff who play this role. Unfortunately, due to various challenges, universities especially private ones find it difficult to attract and retain these staff. Teaching staff attrition rates vary widely between developed and developing countries. On the other hand, emotional intelligence has recently gained a lot of interest among scholars and practitioners due to the fact that it can solve multiple problems at the work place producing a motivated and productive workforce. The main objective of this study is to determine the influence of Emotional Intelligence on turnover intentions among teaching staff in Kenyan private Universities. The study was anchored on mixed theory of emotional intelligence. This research is based on the examination of empirical evidence from secondary data such as literature, statistics, publications and surveys. The findings implied that emotional intelligence affected motivation and job performance of teaching staff and contributes openly through self-awareness, self-management, social - awareness and relationship – management. In conclusion employees who can manage their emotions and build relationships are more productive and successful at work than those with low levels of emotional intelligence. The later also experience career derailment. Emotional intelligence can be learnt and developed. In view of these findings, this study recommends the need for emotional intelligence to be nurtured in private universities in Kenya so as to enable these institutions attract and retain teaching staff.