Relationship-centered leadership and the effect on the performance of construction project teams at a construction site in Queenstown

Abstract

The aim of this study is to determine the influence of soft skills on the motivation of project teams to perform in construction projects. The purpose was to give insight into relationship- centered leadership and its impact on the performance of construction project teams on a Queenstown building site. The problem statement is about relationship-centered leadership and its effects on the performance of construction project teams on a Queenstown construction site. Failure to complete construction projects within the triple constraint requirement is a source of concern for the growing project management discipline. Increased infrastructure development in the Eastern Cape necessitates continued successful implementation. The study will contribute to the method and importance of understanding the effectiveness of project team management in construction projects and the significance of focusing on the needs and interests of employees and the project objectives. The study used quantitative research methodology because of the ability of the methodology to provide both depth and breadth on the phenomenon under study. The target population includes two construction companies in Queenstown in the Eastern Cape. A probability sampling method in the form of a random sampling technique was used to select a hundred respondents from the aforementioned areas. The respondents who were approached were issued with structured questionnaires with open-ended questions. The respondents were made aware that it is not compulsory to participate, and that they could withdraw whenever they felt uncomfortable and that they could omit any questions they are not comfortable with. They were further informed that all the information would be treated as strictly confidential to the maximum extent permitted by law. Data analysis was conducted using Excel, to construct illustrations for the comparison of the variables and to give a meaningful answer to the research question. Relationship-centred leadership will come into existence if subordinates are effectively led, controlled and seen as a vital component of projects. In this process, effective leadership is crucial and leaders should encourage and assist subordinates. For it to be effective, each member must understand their function in the team and be aligned with the project's goals The provision of relationship-centered leadership refers to a project manager upholding effective working relationships with the project team, influencing the team to work without being pressurised, rewarding the team for project success and provision of vision for the team to know the project’s direction. Directing a way forward in a project refers to a project manager effectively communicating project objectives, encouraging team members to perform tasks efficiently and listening actively. The provision of feasible solutions refers to a project manager having the ability to identify a problem, seeking the best solutions when dealing with problems and exhibiting creativity in problem solving.