The most successful project managers are more likely to value and incorporate EQ consistently, according to Capterra research

Amidst the AI frenzy, project teams are doubling down on emotional intelligence (EQ) as an irreplaceable human-centric skill that leads to better business outcomes. In fact, 77% of the most successful project managers say EQ is very important to their roles and 37% have significantly increased their use of the skill in the past two years, according to Capterra’s new survey of project managers at U.S. small and midsize businesses (SMBs).

The benefits of EQ have garnered attention up the organizational chain as 81% of project managers say their leadership also understands the importance of this skill. While project managers have historically been measured on technical results, 67% now report that they are rated on EQ during performance reviews. Given its growing significance in individual evaluations, 83% of project managers say they often or always incorporate EQ-based techniques in their job responsibilities.

Project managers rate conflict resolution and cooperation (74% each) as the two most important aspects of EQ to develop. Those with high EQ have the ability to empathize with the perspectives of others during conflict and can facilitate constructive dialogue, encourage flexibility, and reach resolutions that achieve project goals. Project managers can also increase cooperation by providing a sense of psychological safety within the team. This cultivates a supportive atmosphere where team members feel valued, understood, and motivated to work together.

Beyond group cohesion, EQ also helps teams make better decisions. Most (92%) project managers say a high level of EQ within a team positively impacts the quality of strategic decision-making. By applying EQ, project managers can create an environment that values everyone’s perspectives and leads to better decisions that consider both the rational and emotional needs of the team.

Consistent implementation of EQ is key in achieving project success. In fact, 50% of the most successful project managers report always incorporating EQ-based techniques, which is more than twice as often as their less successful peers (19%). Ultimately, consistent display of EQ by project managers strengthens team dynamics, boosts engagement, and fosters collaboration—leading to more successful project outcomes.

“Achieving technical excellence starts with leveraging powerful ‘soft skills’ at an individual level,” says Olivia Montgomery, PMP, associate principal analyst at Capterra. “Our research shows that the most successful project managers not only value and demonstrate EQ at higher rates than their less successful peers, but they’re also increasing their use of EQ techniques at a faster rate.”

Olivia Montgomery will be sharing these insights on the role of EQ in growing influence and strategic decision-making at the Project Management Institute Global Summit from October 25 to 28, 2023.

Visit Capterra.com to read the full report with more recommendations on implementing EQ within project teams and check out Capterra’s Buyers Guide for project management software.

About Capterra

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