Abstract
Orientation – As we quickly move into the extensive changes the fourth industrial revolution presents, we often struggle to accept those changes and we tend to resist change, especially if the change might seem of a threatening nature. Understanding the forces of resistance is paramount in creating solutions to adopt and embrace technology rather than resist it. Research purpose – This study attempted to specifically look at how people’s emotional intelligence might influence their level of resistance towards Industry 4.0 changes within their working environments. The study also attempted to see if there were any significant differences in levels of resistance to change experienced/displayed by individual in vulnerable occupations and individuals in less vulnerable occupations. Motivation for the study – The fourth industrial revolution holds unlimited potential for all humans, especially in the working environment, but unfortunately the resisting attitudes of the working force make it difficult to fully unlock the technological potential of the working environment. People who are resistant and hesitant to the technologically advanced changes that need to be implemented by managers are the people who will render the success and growth of current organisations. To truly remain competitive, organisations must adapt, and organisations must make the hard decisions to leave behind those who are not willing to adapt with them to the future. It is therefore crucial to deepen our understating of why and how people are resisting these technological changes so that we can tackle them in a constructive way. Research design, approach, and method – In order to carry out the research the Rahim Emotional Quotient Index and the Resistance to Change Measure was administered to working individuals (N=320) in various industries across Gauteng, South Africa. Main Findings – The results indicated that level of emotional intelligence and its five subscales had a statistically significant negative relationship with level of resistance towards change experienced. Additionally, the findings indicated that occupation vulnerability did not significantly influence the level of resistance to change experienced by individuals. Practical/managerial implications - As suggested by this study, the emotional intelligence of individuals plays a role in resisting attitudes towards technological changes. Managers will therefore be able to successfully implement interventions to address the problems faced within the working environment caused by resistant workers. These interventions will not only help organisations more smoothly implement technology in the working environment, but it will also help organisations to improve the mindsets and wellbeing of their working individuals.
M.Com. (Industrial Psychology)