Completion Date

Spring 4-19-2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Program or Discipline Name

Project Management

First Advisor

Dr. Sarah Dyson

Abstract

This study investigates the correlation between emotional intelligence (EI) and client satisfaction in project management. It is guided by the central research question: Is emotional intelligence linked to client satisfaction? To explore this, the research is structured around Practice of EI on Leadership and Junior level and impact on client satisfaction, the impact of varying work environments, including remote, hybrid, office-based, and site-based settings, on project outcomes post-pandemic; differences in EI practices across countries and the effect of diverse work cultures; the comparison of EI application across different fields, with a focus on work-life balance and industry-specific practices in banking, construction, and healthcare.

Employing a qualitative methodology, the study analyses responses from a survey distributed via LinkedIn, utilizing Qualtrics for data coding and interpretation. Preliminary findings suggest that while employee satisfaction is crucial to performance, the direct linkage between EI and project success, and thereby client satisfaction, is complex and multifaceted. Moreover, work environment settings and cultural differences highlight the necessity for adaptable EI practices. Limitations arise in the subjective nature of client satisfaction and its measurement beyond project success. This research contributes to understanding the multifunctional role of EI in project management and underscores the potential of empathetic leadership and tailored management practices to enhance client relations and project outcomes.

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