Project Managers Increasingly Rely on Emotional Intelligence to Navigate the Rise of AI
Capterra’s new report reveals 85% of project managers have increased their use of emotional intelligence over the past two years, with significant improvements reported in problem-solving, decision-making, and team management.
Emotional intelligence (EQ) is emerging as a critical factor in project management success, as highlighted by Capterra’s latest survey of 2,500 project management professionals globally. Nearly all (85%) project managers have increased their reliance on EQ over the past two years because successful project delivery requires technical expertise and the ability to manage relationships.
“Project managers and leaders are turning more to emotional intelligence (EQ) to complement tech-driven capabilities, especially as AI advances”
Elevate project success through emotional intelligence
EQ is now recognized as a key driver of project management success. Project managers (PMs) are leveraging their EQ skills to enhance collaboration, transparency, and overall project outcomes. Over half (57%) of U.S.-based PMs strongly agree that leadership at their company values EQ, up from 46% in 2023. Additionally, 39% of PMs report significantly increasing their use of EQ, compared to 26% in 2023.
Leverage project management tools to enhance emotional intelligence
“Project managers and leaders are turning more to emotional intelligence (EQ) to complement tech-driven capabilities, especially as AI advances,” says Olivia Montgomery, associate principal analyst at Capterra. “This report shows that more PMs are using EQ now, recognizing that while tech is great for crunching data and automating tasks, it can’t handle the human side of things—like managing team dynamics or dealing with conflicts.”
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PMs are finding that integrating PM software with EQ leads to better outcomes. Tools that foster collaboration, transparency, and accountability allow high-EQ managers to lead more effectively, ensuring their teams align with project goals. In fact, over half of PMs (56%) report that EQ positively impacts problem-solving. Over a third (34%) of PMs say time management is a top aspect of their job positively influenced by EQ.
Nearly all (94%) of surveyed PMs feel confident in their ability to lead AI-implementation projects. By handling repetitive tasks like status updates and reporting, AI-driven tools allow project managers to focus on strategic decision-making and stakeholder engagement. This automation is a key factor in the reported increases in productivity and efficiency, with 63% of PMs highlighting these improvements as top benefits.
Address common emotional intelligence misconceptions and enhance conflict resolution
Only 13% of PMs say senior-level stakeholder management is a top area positively impacted by their EQ. This low figure may stem from a misconception that EQ emphasizes empathy over results. Building trust and engagement with the team helps them deliver results, which in turn will build trust and credibility with executives.
PMs identified conflict resolution as the top EQ challenge. Three strategies to overcome conflict include:
- Self-regulate to de-escalate–31% of PMs struggle with self-regulation, which involves staying calm and focused on the issue rather than reacting impulsively.
- Find common ground–39% of PMs struggle with relationship management. Focusing on shared goals and interests help build stronger foundations in key relationships.
- Communicate expectations and share feedback–34% of PMs report challenges in communicating their needs and expectations. Providing constructive feedback after conflicts resolve can help clarify future expectations.
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