Emotional Intelligence and Leadership Behavior in the Nigerian Construction Industry

Abstract

Different authors have investigated the various competences, skills or abilities that constitute emotional intelligence. However, the relative importance of each of the emotional competence components has not been investigated, especially as regards relationship management. A descriptive survey of construction leaders in Victoria Island and Ikeja areas of Lagos State Nigeria were studied. The study also investigated the emotional competences under the relationship management domain, and the behavioral attributes within the competences. Data gathered were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Relative-importance index ranking using the Severity Index shows that the variable ‘Identify and encourage opportunity for collaboration across and within groups’ under Teamwork and Collaboration ranked highest amongst all attributes of relationship management identified, while ‘Use non-verbal cues like tone of voice to focus on the message’ under Communication skills ranked lease. ANOVA test showed that there is no significant difference between the contributions of developing others, leadership, influence, communication, change catalyst, conflict management, building bonds, teamwork and collaboration to relationship management. Possession of all relationship management competences by construction industry leaders is strongly advocated. Furthermore, it is recommended that knowledge of communication skills by members of the industry should be improved and diversified as a way of improving relationship management competences.