Wohlsen Construction Company

Lisa Murray

Emotional Intelligence Champion

Lisa Murray is the Director of Learning and Development at Wohlsen Construction, where she leads the company’s learning and development strategy and leadership training programs. She also provides executive coaching and works closely with leaders across the organization to strengthen collaboration, communication and leadership effectiveness. Lisa’s expertise includes emotional intelligence, leadership development, conflict resolution, effective communication and building strong client relationships.

Throughout my experience working with leaders across our organization, I’ve learned that technical expertise is only one piece of the leadership puzzle. Leaders who create engaged teams and lasting impact are those who understand people. They know how to build trust, strengthen relationships and create an environment where others can succeed.

Emotional intelligence (EQ) is the ability to recognize, understand and manage our own emotions while also understanding the emotions and needs of others. Leaders who develop these skills are better equipped to navigate challenges, communicate effectively and help their teams perform at their best.

Throughout Wohlsen Construction Company’s leadership programs, emotional intelligence consistently emerges as one of the most impactful leadership competencies. Participants frequently report that becoming more self-aware has transformed the way they communicate, coach team members, resolve conflicts and build stronger relationships.

“While emotional intelligence may not appear on a project schedule or financial report, its impact is evident in every conversation, relationship and leadership decision.”

One of the most important elements of emotional intelligence is self-awareness. Leaders who understand their strengths, triggers, communication styles and blind spots are better equipped to respond thoughtfully rather than react emotionally. Through leadership assessments, peer discussions and reflection exercises, program participants often discover behaviors they didn’t realize were influencing their teams. Many describe these insights as pivotal moments in their leadership journey.

Emotional intelligence also plays a critical role in communication. Whether leading a project team, facilitating a difficult conversation or coaching a team member through a challenge, leaders must be able to listen with empathy and adapt their approach to the needs of others. In leadership programs, participants often practice active listening, feedback delivery and conflict resolution. The result is not simply better conversations, but stronger relationships and greater trust.

Another key benefit of emotional intelligence is the ability to navigate conflict effectively. Conflict is inevitable in any organization, but emotionally intelligent leaders view it as an opportunity for growth rather than something to avoid. They can remain calm under pressure, seek to understand multiple perspectives and focus on solutions rather than blame. Program participants frequently share stories of handling workplace situations differently after developing these skills, often leading to improved outcomes for both individuals and teams.

Emotional intelligence is also closely tied to team member engagement. Team members want to work for leaders who genuinely care about their success, recognize their contributions and create an environment where people feel valued. Leaders who demonstrate empathy and authenticity inspire higher levels of commitment and performance. In many leadership program discussions, participants identify meaningful relationships and coaching conversations as some of the most rewarding aspects of leadership.

Perhaps most importantly, emotional intelligence creates a ripple effect throughout an organization. Leaders who model self-awareness, empathy, accountability and effective communication influence the culture around them. They help build teams that are more collaborative, resilient and engaged.

While emotional intelligence may not appear on a project schedule or financial report, its impact is evident in every conversation, relationship and leadership decision. The most successful leaders understand that leadership is ultimately about people, and emotional intelligence provides the foundation for helping those people succeed. Through intentional development and practice, leaders can strengthen these skills and create a lasting positive impact on both their teams and the organization.