The article discusses the main directions of research on emotional intelligence, analyzing the theories of emotional intelligence of foreign and domestic authors. The relevance and demand for studying emotional intelligence is justified, with various indicators being provided. The definitions and structure of emotional intelligence within different scientific approaches are considered. The authors also mention how originally, emotional intelligence was understood to include the abilities to process information contained in emotions, determine the meaning of emotions, and their relationships with one another. The research includes an introduction, theoretical chapter, empirical chapter, conclusion, and a list of 42 sources. The article also highlights the specific contributions of certain authors to the development of the concept of emotional intelligence. Furthermore, the results of an empirical study on emotional intelligence among psychology students and managers are presented, as well as the importance of emotional intelligence for business survival in times of crisis.