GENERAL CONTRACTOR EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

In the construction industry, the major project participants include the owner, the architect, the contractor and the subcontractors. Traditionally, each participant’s activity in the construction process has been isolated to its particular organization’s goals. In recent years, one of the leading trends of project deliveries has been a movement toward a more collaborative, teaming environment. Successful collaboration requires effective interaction among project participants. A fundamental understanding of barriers and challenges to effective interaction among a diverse project team is necessary towards creating truly collaborative project teams in construction. Emotional intelligence reflects an individual’s emotional awareness and emotional regulation, both important factors of social interaction. An initial understanding of project participant emotional intelligence will provide meaningful direction for developing collaborative construction environments. This research study investigates the 21 components of the Bar-On Emotional Quotient Inventory (EQ-i) and establishes initial emotional intelligence benchmarks within the construction industry. This study explores trends and relationships relative to demographics and General Contractor characteristics. This study adds to the growing body of knowledge focusing on the impact of social factors on the A/E/C industry. The results of this study provide an initial understanding of the emotional intelligence levels of the General Contracting sector and directions for future research.