Impact of Emotional Intelligence on Improving Labour Productivity In the Sri Lankan Construction Industry

Abstract

The construction industry plays a vital role in fostering economic growth globally, with labour productivity being a critical determinant of project success and industry competitiveness. Despite extensive research and strategic efforts, Sri Lankan construction companies continue to face significant challenges related to low labour productivity, often stemming from interpersonal, organizational, and technological issues. Recent studies highlight the potential of emotional intelligence (EI) as a pivotal non-technical factor that enhances individual and team performance in construction settings. This research investigates the impact of EI on labour productivity within the Sri Lankan construction sector. Employing a mixed-methods approach, data were collected through structured questionnaires from a diverse sample of 45 workers and open-ended interviews from interviewers, including project managers and HR professionals. Quantitative analysis using correlation techniques and qualitative thematic analysis revealed that the impact of EI positively influences communication, teamwork, conflict resolution, and motivation among workers. Furthermore,5 key strategies and practical actions were identified as effective measures to enhance labour performance. The study underscores the importance of integrating EI development initiatives into industry practices to mitigate common productivity barriers and promote a more cohesive, efficient, and motivated workforce. The findings contribute to the theoretical understanding of non-technical skills in construction productivity and propose practical frameworks for industry stakeholders to implement EI-enhanced management practices, ultimately leading to higher efficiency, safety, and project success in Sri Lanka’s evolving construction landscape.