A STUDY OF EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE, VOICE, AND PERFORMANCE: EVIDENCE FROM GEN Z EMPLOYEES IN INDIA

Abstract

India is currently witnessing a significant generational transition in its workforce. Generation 
Z (individuals born approximately between 1997 and 2012) has begun to dominate entry-level 
and early-career roles, particularly in corporate and information technology (IT) sectors. These 
sectors operate in highly dynamic, innovation-driven environments where collaboration, 
communication, and adaptability are critical for performance. 
Unlike previous generations, Gen Z employees are digital natives, socially expressive, and 
accustomed to rapid information exchange. However, Indian corporate and IT organizations 
traditionally function within relatively hierarchical structures. Such cultural characteristics may 
influence how young employees communicate, express ideas, and perceive psychological 
safety in the workplace. 
Emotional intelligence has emerged as a key individual capability enabling employees to 
regulate emotions, manage interpersonal relationships, and cope with workplace stress. 
Simultaneously, psychological safety—defined as the belief that one can speak up without fear 
of negative consequences—has been linked to innovation and team effectiveness. Employee 
voice behaviour, which refers to the proactive expression of suggestions and concerns, plays a 
vital role in organizational improvement and performance outcomes. 
While prior research has examined these constructs independently, limited studies have 
integrated them into a single structural pathway, particularly focusing on Gen Z employees in 
the Indian corporate and IT context. This study addresses this gap by examining how emotional 
intelligence influences psychological safety, how psychological safety promotes voice 
behaviour, and how voice behaviour ultimately enhances workplace performance.

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