Socio-emotional competencies in public sector labor productivity

Abstract

The objective of this study was to determine the influence of social-emotional competencies on the work productivity of public sector employees. The research was conducted using a quantitative approach with a descriptive-explanatory scope and a non-experimental cross-sectional design. The population consisted of 842 workers, from which a probabilistic sample of 404 employees was drawn. Data were collected using a survey and a questionnaire validated by expert judgment, achieving a Cronbach’s alpha reliability of 0.955 for social-emotional competencies and 0.922 for productivity. The results indicate a moderate positive association (R = 0.619), where the socio-emotional dimensions explain 38.3% of the variability in productivity (R² = 0.383); the remaining 61.7% depends on external factors such as infrastructure and technology. The regression analysis demonstrated that the four dimensions (self-regulation, social awareness, self-awareness, and relationship management) have a significant influence (Sig. < 0.05), with self-regulation standing out as the predictor with the greatest relative impact (B = 0.694; Sig. = 0.003). It is concluded that human talent and emotional maturity constitute the critical determinants of government efficiency, validating that strengthening these competencies directly enhances the baseline level of productivity and organizational success.