Managing conflict in the public sector during crises: the impact on crisis management team effectiveness

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the relationships between emotional intelligence, communication, decision-making and conflict management styles in crisis management teams (CMTs), giving emphasis on leader-team member interaction during crisis situations. Participants were 177 individuals involved in CMTs representing Greek public organisations and government. Data were collected by means of structured questionnaires in a series of personal interviews. Results indicate that team members' ability to make decisions, internal communication and leaders' emotional intelligence are positively associated with cooperation and integration within CMTs in public sector. Implications for management are discussed including the need for leaders to further develop emotional intelligence competencies, so that team members are motivated to integrate activities and attain common goals increasing CMT effectiveness.