Title: Exploring soft competencies for measuring project team performance at the workplace: a systematic review

Authors: Naima Deveila Suleman; Bismark Duodu; Evans Kwesi Mireku; Ernest Kissi; Bernard Kofi Baiden; Gabriel Nani

Addresses: Department of Construction Technology and Management, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana ' Department of Construction Technology and Management, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana ' Department of Construction Technology and Management, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana ' Department of Construction Technology and Management, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana ' Department of Construction Technology and Management, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana ' Department of Construction Technology and Management, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana

Abstract: This study aims to identify and categorise essential team soft competencies for project team performance required at the workplace by conducting a systematic review existing literature. Using the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA), the study analysed various scholarly articles to extract key themes related to soft competencies. Thematically, these skills were classified into distinct categories to highlight their significance in team-based work environments across various industries. The study identified 34 key soft competencies as essential for effective team performance. These skills were organised into five major themes: people skills, management skills, personal attributes, professional conduct, and wellness and stress management. The findings significantly affect organisations seeking to improve overall team performance. By understanding and fostering the development of these soft competencies, companies can enhance employee engagement, reduce conflict, and promote a more cohesive work environment. This paper provides a comprehensive synthesis of the existing literature on team soft competencies, offering a unique perspective on their categorisation and importance in the workplace. The study contributes to the ongoing discussion on soft competencies by organising them into clear themes, providing a valuable resource for both academic researchers and industry practitioners seeking to enhance team performance.

Keywords: competencies; teamwork; soft competencies; performance; organisation.

DOI: 10.1504/IJPOM.2026.151975

International Journal of Project Organisation and Management, 2026 Vol.18 No.1, pp.97 - 124

Received: 16 Feb 2025
Accepted: 19 May 2025
Published online: 28 Feb 2026 *

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