The interaction effect of emotional intelligence and emotional labor on job satisfaction: A test of Holland's classification of occupations

Although emotional intelligence has been a popular concept in the media, there have been few scientifically rigorous studies designed to examine its roles in the workplace. Following the exploratory evidence provided by a recent study, the study reported in this chapter replicated the finding that emotional intelligence and the nature of job requirement (i.e., emotional labor) have an interacting effect on job satisfaction. Using a sample of 307 respondents from six different jobs, this interaction effect was confirmed. Furthermore, this study argues that the nature of job requirement could be estimated from Holland's occupational model. Results supported this argument. Implications for future career and human resource management research concerning emotional intelligence are discussed.