THE IMPACT OF SOFT SKILLS DEVELOPMENT ON THE PERFORMANCE AND PROFITABILITY OF CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES: A CASE STUDY IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC

• Published in: Ekonomicko-manazerske spektrum Vol. 17; no. 2; pp. 35 - 47
• Main Authors: Kollmann, Jaroslav, Deshati, Erjona, Legowik-Malolepsza, Malgorzata
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Zilina University of Zilina Faculty of Operation and Economics of Transport and Communications, Department of Economics 01.01.2023
• Subjects: Chi-square test; Comparative analysis; Competition; Competitive advantage; Construction industry; Consumers; Correlation analysis; Employees; Foremen; Future; Human capital; Innovations; Knowledge management; Labor market; Managerial skills; Modern society; Owners; Profiles; Profitability; Skill development; Soft skills; Subordinates; Sustainability; Czech Republic
• ISSN: 1337-0839; 2585-7258
• DOI: 10.26552/ems.2023.2.35-47

Research background: This study examines the potential impact of modifying the profiling of management and professional abilities on the performance of construction companies, with the aim of enhancing the value delivered by these organisations to their owners and consumers. To obtain a response to this inquiry, we conducted a comparative analysis of 41 construction firms operating in the South Bohemia region of the Czech Republic. Purpose of the article: In contemporary society, operational managers bear a significant responsibility for effectively guiding their subordinates towards the achievement of organisational objectives. Simultaneously, it can be argued that, considering the unavoidable transformations in the labour market, employers must embrace the skills required for the future to effectively respond to the rapidly evolving corporate landscape. Methods: This investigation involved the utilisation of correlation analysis, a one-criteria analysis of variance, and the chi-square test. Our research has provided a strong focus on the distinctive characteristics of first-line managers. Instances of this phenomenon can be observed inside construction enterprises, where it is manifested through the roles of foremen and group leaders. Findings & Value Added: Moreover, fostering a wider range of soft skills is not only beneficial but also imperative. This assertion can be substantiated by illustrating the necessity for employers to embrace future-oriented talents as a means of effectively responding to the rapidly increasing pace of change within the business landscape. The implications of the solution's findings suggest that the matter of managerial and professional abilities within the building sector is presently relevant, essential, and holds social significance. This assertion holds validity when considering the industry's transformations that arise directly from the crisis.