The role of emotional intelligence in effective leadership in the era of artificial intelligence

Abstract

The relevance of the study is driven by the need to rethink leadership models in the context of digital transformation, which is characterized by the automation of managerial processes, the implementation of artificial intelligence, and the growing prevalence of hybrid team interaction. In a dynamic environment marked by information overload and emotional fragmentation, there is a pressing demand for management approaches that integrate emotional sensitivity with cognitive and analytical efficiency.

The aim of the study is to scientifically substantiate the role of emotional intelligence as a critical factor of effective leadership in hybrid and automated environments and to develop conceptual foundations for its integration with artificial intelligence tools.

The methodology of the research is based on an interdisciplinary approach, including systems analysis, content review of current academic literature, elements of empirical modeling, and comparative analysis of leadership model transformation in digital organizations.

The study has established that emotional intelligence ensures adaptability, trust, conflict reduction, and team resilience in digitally dynamic conditions. It has been demonstrated that a high level of emotional competence in leaders enhances interaction in hybrid formats, while automation of decision-making without consideration of emotional factors leads to the erosion of empathy and the dehumanization of leadership. It has been identified that modern AI systems show strong potential in detecting behavioral risks but cannot fully replicate emotional perception.

The scientific novelty lies in the conceptualization of a synergistic leadership model that combines a leader’s emotional intelligence with the analytical capabilities of digital technologies, as well as in identifying key barriers and risks related to the emotional reduction in automated management practices.

The conclusions state that emotional competence should be viewed as a strategic leadership resource, particularly in environments where AI is integrated into communication, motivation, and employee support processes.
The prospects for further research include the development of ethically secure human–algorithm interaction interfaces, the creation of emotionally sensitive team analytics metrics, and the experimental testing of emotional leadership models in real-world digital contexts.