The effect of emotional intelligence on entrepreneurial behaviour and new venture creation: an Egyptian perspective

The study investigates the effect of emotional intelligence (EI) of Egyptian entrepreneurs on entrepreneurial behaviour (EB) and on new venture creation (NVC). Using the survey strategy, it examines a sample of 467 Egyptian entrepreneurs who conduct self-administered questionnaires. The analysis shows that there is a significant relationship between emotional intelligence and entrepreneurial behaviour. There are also three components of EI (interpersonal skills, internal motivation and self-awareness) which strongly affect the NVC. Age has a moderating effect on this relationship. Furthermore, the study analyses the differences between necessity-driven entrepreneurs and opportunity-driven entrepreneurs with respect to the effect of EI on EB and NVC. In general, EI affects EB significantly, but this is particularly so in the case of necessity, as EI does not affect EB in the case of opportunity-driven entrepreneurs. The effect of EI on NVC is significant in both cases. Examination of the components of EI shows differences between cases of necessity and opportunity. The results have practical implications for entrepreneurship development and capacity building, specifically in developing countries, where necessity is more common.