An emerging body of literature supports the importance of effective leadership to navigate ever-changing complex healthcare environments. Not all nursing leaders possess necessary elements of emotional intelligence (EI) which is foundational to supporting nurses directly impacting patient care. Although numerous studies connect high levels of EI with successful leaders outside healthcare, few studies have been conducted within nursing practice. A project was undertaken to determine which attributes (also referred to as facets) of EI are most desired by clinical nurses in charge nurses and nurse managers. The purpose of the study is to improve charge nurse and nurse manager EI through identification of specific competencies that need development.