PERSONALITY TRAITS AND WORK OUTCOMES OF PROJECT MANAGERS IN THE SINGAPORE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

Abstract

Project Managers play a crucial role in the success of construction projects as they make important decisions at every project stage. In order to ensure the commitment and efficiency of a project manager, it is vital that project managers are satisfied with their job. Previous studies showed that personality traits do affect job satisfaction. However, the gap in knowledge is that the effect personality has on work outcomes in the construction industry is hitherto unknown. Thus, the objectives of this study are to explore the personality traits and work outcomes of project managers in the Singapore construction industry as well as investigate the relationship between personality traits and work outcomes. A questionnaire was designed based on the literature review and data was collected through online platforms. The data received was analyzed using the SPSS software. This study finds that project managers have the following personality traits: high extraversion, high agreeableness, high conscientiousness, high openness to experiences and low neuroticism. It was also found that project managers are generally satisfied with their jobs, experience a high level of stress, neutral about the salary they receive, have low turnover intention and do not take unofficial leave often. Empirically, the correlation results show extraversion is correlated with level of stress; agreeableness is correlated with level of stress and frequency of absenteeism; conscientiousness is correlated with level of stress, frequency of absenteeism and satisfaction with salary; neuroticism is correlated with general job satisfaction, level of stress, frequency of absenteeism and satisfaction with salary; openness is correlated with level of stress. Finally, this study recommends the personality types that is most suitable for a project manager role in the Singapore construction industry such that work outcomes are maximised.