Emotional and Social Intelligence and its Impact on the Business Success of Bulgarian Digital Entrepreneurs

Abstract

The rapid development of digital technologies over the past two decades has created a new economic environment that requires continuous adaptation. However, paradoxically, increasing digitisation emphasises the importance of soft skills such as emotional and social intelligence. The present study aims to empirically analyse the relationship between these skills and the success of Bulgarian digital entrepreneurs. The results show that successful entrepreneurs demonstrate higher levels of emotional and social intelligence, with all its components – self-awareness, self-control, motivation, empathy and social skills – contributing significantly to en​trepreneurial success. The importance of optimism for overcoming challenges in a dynamic digital environment is particularly emphasised. The conclusion is that, despite the specific requirements of digital business, the basic profile of a successful en​tre​preneur remains universal and is characterised by high emotional and social intelligence. Therefore, this study adds value to the literature on entrepreneurship, management, organisational behaviour, and human resource management, while it can contribute to the development of assessment tools, as well as training and development programs for emotional and social intelligence.